Create a Dominican Faceless Doll

Faceless dolls represent the diverse mixture of peoples of the Dominican Republic.

NPS Photo / Elizabeth Thakkar

A pottery worker in the Dominican Republic named Liliana Mera Limé handcrafted the first “faceless doll” in 1981 leaving a smooth, unfinished surface where the face should be. It is the lack of faces that make the dolls a symbol of the Dominican Republic, as they are said to represent the Dominicans’ rich mix of people from all over the world. Nowadays, they are sold all over the Dominican Republic and come in a variety of heights, shapes, skin tones, and dress styles. All the dolls are handmade and hand-painted, so no two dolls are alike. 

As part of a collaboration between Salem Maritime National Historic Site and the North Shore Community Development Coalition, creating your own Dominican Faceless Doll out of paper is an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages and backgrounds. Learn more about faceless dolls and follow along with the steps in the article to create your own!

Details

Duration

30-180 Minutes

Activity

Arts and Culture

The activity involves crafting a doll using some basic supplies.

Age(s)

5 and Older

This craft involves the use of scissors and glue.

Pets Allowed

No

Not applicable

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

The activity is self-directed and can happen anywhere at anytime.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The activity is self-directed and can happen anywhere at anytime.

Time of Day

Any Time

The activity is self-directed and can happen anywhere at anytime.

Accessibility Information

The activity is self-directed and is not specific to a location. The instructions are available through the Faceless Dolls article.