I had to navigate a number of Japanese sites (despite the fact that my computer doesn’t read Japanese characters) to track down a little gallery of Mari Shimizu’s work.

Her doll creations are phenomenal. Ethereal, haunting, beautiful, unsettling…some expressing powerful emotion, others transfixed in a lifeless plastic stare that uncomfortably juxtaposes their lavish surroundings.

The photography techniques add much to the display of her projects. She seems to carefully choose the lighting and tone, whether a warm glow or harsh blinding daylight, creating an effect that’s almost cinematic.

Highly recommended if you enjoy this type of craft.