Portfolio 2026 showcases my work in embroidery and doll-making. I have gathered all my projects here to demonstrate my creativity and provide a visual representation of my work to present myself as an artist.
Looking for something strange and unusual — a little creepy, but shiny like a gemstone?Modern dolls and art pieces feel boring and silly: either sweet mass-market stuff, or «safe» collectibles that just don’t grab you. You want an image that gives you goosebumps — and makes you admire it at the same time.The answer — a doll I will make just for you.My dolls mix creepy old tales from folklore of different countries, but they look like shining gemstones. Strange, wonderful, bold — and really striking.
Who will you pick?· Baba Yaga — old and bold?
· The Frog Princess — full of shine and mystery?
· A goose in a boudoir outfit — bold and elegant?
· Or does the mysterious oriental nag call to you?Each one — handmade, made just for you: an old dark spirit in a shining frame. Not for play — for your collection, your home, and to make a statement.
About me:
Sofia Khotimskaya
24 y.o.
Why you should work with me:
When creating dolls, I draw on the full scope of my imagination. I try to visualize the underlying concepts in everyday objects, which I then express through my diverse and unconventional characters. My dolls are a reflection of the real, multifaceted people we encounter in our own lives.
My work process:
Stage 0: inspiration, after long walks, books read, or simply a story from an acquaintance that impressed me, an idea is born, it is rough and raw, but it exists. Which means it’s time to go to the work studio.
Stage 1: Frame.
Everything starts with wire or a plastic articulated frame. I assemble the «skeleton» of the future creature (as in the photo with the workbench). This is the foundation that will allow the doll to be not only beautiful, but also durable, capable of taking different poses and holding its shape.
Stage 2: Papier-mâché — sculpting the main mass.
At this stage, I build up the volume. I form the base of the face and limbs.
Stage 3: Final correction with paper clay.
When the main form is ready, a softer texture comes into play — paper clay. This is jewelry work, facial wrinkles and the texture of skin or scales.
Stage 4: Painting.
The most exciting and long process; making a mistake here is equivalent to rolling back several stages. The doll seems to wake up, opening its eyes.
Stage 5: Textile.
And, of course, the main body and clothing. Here my love for fabrics and embroidery comes into play. Gothic monsters gain bodies through dense textured knitting, while aristocrats — through brocade and beads. The costume completes the image, turning the sculpture into a full-fledged character.
Come closer and the show starts!
Fedora’s Misfortune
(Size — 49 cm)
This doll embodies all those annoying mishaps we all encounter in day-to-day lives — aching knees, a dropped sandwich, a sudden spike in blood pressure, a broken heel…but all these misfortunes are the source of her magic. And you have to admit, it makes her charming.
No one but her could bring this charm of little absurdities into you homes.
Janetta
(Size — 45 cm)
This doll was inspired by Irina Bogushevskaya’s song Croatian March. The song sets the mood for the doll and changes the perception of it — it conjures up images of luxurious boats arriving at the sun-drenched shore, their sails filled with the warmth of summer. Janetta was created to bring the same sense of warmth into your home.
The Sun and the Moon
(Size-36 cm)
are like two sides of the same coin. Each is beautiful in its own way, yet they only truly shine when paired together. Their duet represents the multifaceted nature of our lives. Even their attires resemble each other, yet each remains unique. Choose your side — or embrace the different facets of yourself.
The Frog Bride
(Size — 38 cm)
This rather fancy frog lives in a bog but do not let the surroundings fool you — she’s ready to meet her Prince. Perhaps you’re the one she’s been waiting for. If so, why don’t you take her home?
The Goat
(Size- 42 cm)
is a reference to ancient folk traditions surrounding kolyadki (traditional Christmas/midwinter caroling). Its persona bridges the past and the present; the ritual mask and staff, paired with stylish trousers and a fur coat, serve as a bold reminder that we must not forget our roots.
