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The object of Ourania Kallianou is to preserve the
tradition of costumed dolls manufacture, a testimony of the rich history
and culture of the island of Skopelos. Through her collection of handmade
miniature costumes, one can acquaint themselves with the art and culture of Skopelos.
Each creation is a fruit of her fertile imagination, skilful hands and
meticulous creativity. The dolls reflect her tireless devotion to
traditional values as a clear sign of her local identity.
The artist’s sensitivity expresses traditional regional art. She creates
traditional handmade dolls dressed in the plain everyday costume, as well
as ones dressed in the bridal costume, a richly embroidered one. Both
costumes depict the long tradition of the regional art in Skopelos. They
have one thing in common: they represent the folk art, which has been
preserved for generations. They rouse admiration and attract attention by
their freshness of colour and variety of shape charming any person who is
able to perceive beauty. The making of one of her dolls’ costumes involves about
ten days of hard work, a process that requires great effort and skill,
patience and compassion. Mrs Ourania makes each costume by hand, creating,
painting, designing and sewing the historically inspired apparel. Her
unique costumes capture the charm and enchantment of the classic costumes of the
18th and 19th centuries; they are sought by collectors and can add an
endearing piece of childhood innocence to any home setting. |

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