Mass-marketed dolls for kids, usually girls, are often subject to criticism. Detractors say that they set an unrealistic and unhealthy standard for young, impressionable girls. In the meantime, though, mainstream media is seriously lacking in the representation of intelligent, thoughtful female role models.
So who can little girls (and boys, because this is the 21st century) look up to during playtime?
That was something artist Wendy Tsao was thinking about when she decided to create a more positive line of dolls for kids to play with.
This doll was made over to resemble Roberta Bondar, the first Canadian female astronaut. Tsao’s collection of dolls modeled after famous women is known as Mighty Dolls.
Jane Goodall, primatologist and UN Messenger of Peace.
Tsao took some used Bratz dolls (which have been famously used by others for makeunders) and transformed them into women she admires. The women include artists, writers, scientists, and activists, and they all reflect different time periods, heritages, and skills.
She wants kids — girls and boys — to see that women, too, have worked to change the world.
Waris Dirie, model, author, and social activist.
And no, being a model isn’t grounds for role-model disqualification.
J.K. Rowling, novelist, best known for the Harry Potter series.
Malala Yousafzai, activist and world’s youngest Nobel Peace laureate.
Frida Kahlo, painter.
(via My Modern Met)
Tsao credits her inspiration to Tree Change Dolls, who we covered earlier this year. She’s also created other dolls that offer a more realistic and nuanced approach to childhood. Tsao plans on auctioning her Mighty Dolls on eBay in the near future. Check out her website for more information.
