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Bear makers and teddy artists are always welcome to contact us for a portrait. We're looking forward
to hearing from you.
Year of the monkey
Rosie ParknShop
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Rosalie, please describe your bears with your own words
I usually create traditional style bears with various themes, such as my Chinese Zodiac bears, but I occasionally create some more modern bears. In 2007, I changed direction and decided to create some dogs. I first made a "Westie" (West Highland Terrier) then a Golden Cocker Spaniel, followed by a long-haired dachshund. The latter was a challenge and after much planning at the drawing board, ended up with 27 pattern pieces.
When did you start making bears and what was the occasion?
I started making bears in January 1999. On a trip to Australia, I stayed with my girlfriend Christine and I admired a beautiful mohair bear that she had made, and she gave him to me! Then I just had to make one for myself, so she sent me a kit for Christmas and I made my first bear with pink mohair. Steiff's Teddy Rose is my favourite. In the years following, I have also managed to collect many artist teddy bears from all around the world.
Do you recollect the first teddy that you made yourself?
Yes, I certainly still do have the first bear that I made and will not part with her!
Year of the 4 bears |
How do you get ideas or inspiration for new bears?
I am often inspired by the colour of the mohair or the style and texture of the mohair.
What do like most when making bears?
I love bringing the face to life when I'm making bears. I love to see their character emerge.
Chinese Zodiac bear
Lai Lai & Year of the Ram II
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Do you have a personal great dream regarding the bear making?
I evolve great pleasure and satisfaction from creating and making bears and in today's hectic lifestyle, it is a wonderful way to unwind. I don't enter competitions anymore, but just enjoy my craft. My dream one of these days is to make a series of Jazz Musician bears. I have been collecting instruments for this very purpose.
Please tell us something about the place where you live. What's your place of birth?
I was born in Melbourne, Australia and after travelling around Asia, ended up in Hong Kong, and have made Hong Kong my home with my Filipino husband and my 2 wonderful sons.
Is there a teddy bear scene where you live (regular fairs, competitions, magazines)?
There is a small but very loyal teddy bear scene here, and there is an Annual Bear Competition which is held by the Hong Kong Teddy Bear Association. Gloria Chan is the founder of the HKTBA and she also teaches bear making techniques and continually holds classes and workshops.
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Do you think that your bears are influenced by your place of residence / country or would they
look the same if you lived elsewhere?
My bears are definitely influenced by my living in Hong Kong, because I enjoy making a range of Chinese themed bears.
Visit Rosalie Carpio and her creations Online:
http://www.rosalies-bears.com
Copyright: © Rosalie Carpio
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