The ART & CRAFT of Mimi Kirchner
I am a lifelong artist and I make one-of-a-kind, fabric fine art toys. I have made and sold my craft work since I was 16 years old. I started out making jewelry as a teen, received my BFA from Carnegie-Mellon University in 1976, and then was a potter for 20+ years. I have been focused on fiber arts since 2000.
I show and sell my work through my online Etsy shop, by participating in fine craft shows such as the Smithsonian Craft Show in Washington, DC, and also through my various social media platforms. I am most active on Instagram; it is a perfect platform for visual arts. The dolls have been included in gallery shows around the world, most recently here in Boston at the Society of Arts and Crafts show called Child’s Play, in many books, magazines, and online journals. In past years I have licensed my designs to Crate and Barrel and West Elm. I teach when people invite me, and I sell patterns for some of my designs through my Etsy shop.
My work is inspired by classic children’s book illustration, early American portrait painting, and folk art from around the world. The dolls range from burly circus performers to serene, swaddled babies. The work is known for its detail work and lively nature. Each piece is crafted from original patterns using new, reclaimed, and/or vintage fabrics. They are meticulously hand-embroidered and appliquéd to create a unique piece of art. I have lived in Arlington since 1988.
