We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Pierce and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chelsea, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Upon beginning my journey in painting reborn dolls in 2018, I quickly observed that representations of uniquely featured dolls were notably absent within the reborn doll community. This observation prompted me to create dolls that embody characteristics such as prominent birthmarks and open-heart surgery scars. I recognized the profound need for individuals to see themselves or their children reflected as beautiful works of art, rather than perceiving these features as flaws. As I produced more of these distinct dolls, feedback varied significantly; At the same time, some critics voiced concerns about “ruining” doll kits and questioned the desirability of such creations, I also received encouraging messages from people who expressed gratitude for feeling represented within the doll community. The support and appreciation from these individuals continue to inspire me deeply in my work.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My lifelong passion for infants and artistry began in my early years. I could never have imagined that my creative journey would lead me to the intricate work of painting dolls to resemble real babies. Having been placed in and out of foster care, I lacked toys that felt truly personal. It was only after my adoption at the age of four that I received my first baby doll from a family friend, Cindy; this gift became my most cherished possession. While art has always captivated me, I initially struggled with it academically—I earned a C- in my first-semester college art class and was advised by a teaching assistant that I lacked the eye necessary to be taken seriously as an artist.
After graduating in 2006 I found myself in various jobs that did not fulfill me, leading to the realization that working for others was not what I wanted. The loss of both my brother and father on the same day in 2008 profoundly impacted my perspective on life. This tragedy inspired me to make a firm commitment: regardless of where life’s path took me, I would embrace living fully and authentically.
Since becoming a mother in 2009, I have been motivated to seek opportunities that would allow me to balance time with my child while generating income. My introduction to reborn dolls came in 2015; these dolls are initially sculpted from clay and subsequently produced as vinyl kits for artists specializing in their painting. The realism of the finished product largely depends on the artist’s skill level. My longstanding fascination with hyper-realism led me to take the decisive step of creating my first doll in 2018.

From that point onward, I became deeply engaged in the reborn doll community. Before this realization, I was unaware that one could actively learn and refine their artistic skills; I had always assumed that such talent was inherent. The level of craftsmanship evident in my dolls today is a direct result of six years of dedicated practice. I believe my artistry distinguishes itself from other reborn artists due to my focus on creating dolls that feature birthmarks and perceived “imperfections.” I am convinced that these unique characteristics contribute to the individuality and beauty that is in everyone.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
To start our day, I would take them to a breakfast in Atlanta, because the South does breakfast right in my personal opinion. My recommendation is the West Egg Cafe. Following breakfast, and to counterbalance our indulgence of fried chicken biscuits, we could enjoy a stroll through Piedmont Park only if they are visiting in the fall, taking anyone for a walk in summer is just mean if they are not used to the heat.

The Georgia Aquarium would be the obvious place to take my friend, but I would insist we go to The High Museum of Art to take a tour or try to participate in an event. Our evening would continue with an early dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room before attending a performance at the Fox Theatre.I would have obviously purchased tickets beforehand and surprised my bestest friend with front row seats to this summer’s performance of Lion King, or Funny Girl.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my wonderful husband and children. They are my greatest supporters, consistently encouraging me during self-doubt regarding my creations. My children have even salvaged dolls from the trash, reminding me to step back from my work and view it with a fresh perspective each morning. They actively engage in my creative process, listening to my ideas and assisting with tasks such as assembling dolls or filming for social media. Their involvement is instrumental to Pumpkin Sparkles Babies, and I am profoundly grateful for their unwavering belief in me.

Website: https://www.pumpkinsparklesbabies.com

Instagram: Pumpkinsparklesbabies

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092939247198

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Jy9i_Zlev5yPRu2ZnTRYA

Image Credits
The photo of the real baby with the birthmark is Winry Hall with permission from her mother Nicole Hall. I created a doll with her birthmark and gifted it to her.

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