From Girl to Doll

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In this immersive installation, over 50 dolls, sprayed and hand-painted in designs inspired by bondage, hang in formation, inviting the viewer into a dark, provocative world. At first glance, they appear decorative and vulnerable, reduced to unconscious objects of desire. But on closer inspection, their presence begins to shift: they confront, they claim space, they assert power.

The work draws inspiration from Living Dolls: The Return of Sexism by Natasha Walter, and reflects on themes of control and history found in George Orwell’s idea that “He who controls the present controls the past.” The title From Girl to Doll echoes this sentiment, suggesting how dominant narratives shape not only women’s futures but also their identities from childhood.

A distorted film loop featuring the first Barbie commercial and archival fragments flickers in the background, disrupting nostalgia with discomfort.

Originally shown at LAC's Weight and See exhibition in the Undercroft Gallery, Norwich, the installation invited visceral reactions from audiences:

“The dolls scared me but really made me think.”
“Loved the suitably sinister doll film and installation.”
“That Doll installation piece is just incredible.”
“Very moving.”
“The dolls are traumatising.”
“10/10! Amazing work!”