I’ve mentioned before, somewhere in this blog, that I’m very fond of ball-jointed dolls, especially those made by Dream of Doll. My friend, Jen, informed me two weeks ago about this fund-raising activity at The Podium where dolls are going to be exhibited and members from ManikaManila, an organization of BJD owners in the Philippines, are going to be volunteering. I said, Wow, cool! Maybe a ManikaManila member will bring her Dream of Doll BJD! We went on the first day of the event and that’s where I learned what the exhibit was all about.

It was an exhibit of “rag dolls” contributed by various artists. Some of the contributors were even national artists such as Malang. Their works will be auctioned off and the proceeds will help fund Manikako (“my doll” in Filipino), a project of ArtHOC (House of Comfort Art Network), a non-profit organization that provides children with free art workshops.

The dolls were made from used materials that have been collected through drop-boxes all over Metro Manila. Anyone can be a big help just by dropping their old stuff in Manikako bins. One can contribute to the fund-raiser by buying DIY doll kits. A base doll costs 150php and 250php for a customized one. I got myself a base doll and a customized one! Guess who I wanted made into a doll. Thanks to Kishi for the Mana-sama pics!

I was happy to meet people who were also familiar with Mana-sama. Cause when I handed out this picture as a reference for the doll, the volunteers were like “Mana! Mana!” It was so cool. I was also happy because of ArtHOC’s movement to develop art appreciation among kids. As an artist myself, I know how art can make me feel fulfilled and empowered. It has a become a way for me to express myself and my emotions when I can neither say nor write them.

To ArtHOC, Manikako, ManikaManila, Mistula and to the people who contributed — BANZAI!!!

***Proud member of ManikaManila!

I found this picture of Juka from his official website. The doll below is Sha, from a Dream of Doll collection. I think Juka resembles Sha in a way. I think it’s because of the hair… First time I’ve seen Juka without the heavy make up from his Moi Dix Mois days. He looks quite nice! Just something to share to Juka fans out there. I’m not really one. I just found myself giggling when looking at Juka’s picture and then Sha’s. It’s hilarious…

In case anyone is still wondering who Juka is, he’s the former vocalist of Moi Dix Mois. (Yup, another %$#@! who left Mana-sama and caused the band to break apart.) Now, he’s a vocalist for Hizaki Grace Project as well as a solo artist.

In case there are any Juka-haters out there, buy this doll, say a chant, and stick it with pins! HAHAHAHA!

Love the dolls from Dream of Doll. They’re made in Korea. The price per doll is unbelievable. Each one can cost more than 500 US dollars, but the dolls are worth it!!! Completely posable, body parts are changeable, you can also add additional accessories and make-up! Very nice! Check out this guy. He costs US 560$.

View their site here.