Modern Artists Reimagined as Traditional Japanese Kokeshi Dolls

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

Inspired by modern art history, many of today's top designers create quirky products that pay homage to the 21st century's most famous figures. This trend has culminated in an eclectic range of products, including toe-tally creative novelty socks, artistic action figures, and, thanks to designer Becky Kemp of Sketch.Ink, a collection of cute Kokeshi dolls modeled after Vincent Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, and Salvador Dalí.

The Kokeshi has been popular in Japan since the Edo Period. In order to properly honor this centuries-old craft, Kemp has opted to retain the doll's key characteristics when creating her contemporary Kokeshi—including a straightforward silhouette, oversized head, and stylized face. Given the simplicity of this design, a few small details are all that's needed to bring each miniature artist to life.

With his red beard, sunflower lapel pin, and bandaged ear, there's no mistaking the Van Gogh Kokeshi for any other artist. Similarly, the Frida Kahlo figurine wears the floral hair accessories, colorful clothing, and iconic unibrow characteristic of the painter. And, on top of his stylish suit, the Salvador Dalí doll dons the over-the-top facial hair that has come to represent the quirky artist.

At nearly 6 inches tall, these adorable wooden figurines will spruce up any setting, from a desk to a dollhouse. Find this trio and more in the My Modern Met Store.

These adorable Kokeshi dolls by Becky Kemp creatively capture the well-known quirks of famous artists, including Van Gogh's bandaged ear…

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

 

Frida Kahlo's floral hair accessories, colorful clothing, and iconic unibrow…

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

 

And Salvador Dalí's surreal signature mustache.

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

 

You can find these modern artist Kokeshi dolls and more in the My Modern Met Store.

Modern Artist Kokeshi Dolls by Becky Kemp Sketch Inc

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Related Articles:

Cute and Quirky Van Gogh Action Figure Comes with Tiny Detachable Ear

Adorable Frida Kahlo Action Figure Features Iconic Unibrow and Detachable Heart

Quirky Salvador Dalí Doll Includes Interchangeable Mustaches and a Melting Clock

15 Unconventional Action Figures That Make Toys Even More Fun

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Kelly Richman-Abdou

Kelly Richman-Abdou is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. An art historian living in Paris, Kelly was born and raised in San Francisco and holds a BA in Art History from the University of San Francisco and an MA in Art and Museum Studies from Georgetown University. When she’s not writing, you can find Kelly wandering around Paris, whether she’s leading a tour (as a guide, she has been interviewed by BBC World News America and France 24) or simply taking a stroll with her husband and two tiny daughters.
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