#ARCTIC. #SIBERIA. THIS IS TAIMYR. Nineteen-year-old Polina Hirou, a student at the Norilsk College of Arts, has been passionate about creativity for as long as she can remember, with a particular love for drawing. Recognizing her talent, her parents enrolled her in an art school, which she completed successfully.
“In art school, I learned that I could apply to the arts college after graduation. During my time there, I discovered many new skills, such as bead embroidery, bone carving, and much more”, Polina explained.
Throughout her studies, Polina created numerous works in both fine art and applied creativity. However, the project that left the deepest impression on her was a doll representing a member of the indigenous peoples of the Far North. Though, the creation process involved many intricate details.
“First, my instructor and I developed a sketch of the doll, then we set to work on bringing it to life. The doll is crafted from leather, fur, and beads in various shades of brown. We stuffed it with synthetic padding and attached a sturdy base. The entire process took me about two months”, Polina shared about her creative journey.
The doll turned out so lifelike that it seems as if it is a real person, frozen in awe of the Northern Lights or enjoying the first rays of sunshine after a long winter.
In her work, Polina successfully captured the unique character and authenticity of the northern peoples. She noted that the college places a strong emphasis on understanding the foundations of their rich culture.
“In class, our instructors share insights about the life, customs, and traditions of the northern peoples, as well as the diverse patterns they use to adorn their clothing, footwear, and headwear. Each ornamentation serves as a simplified representation of their surroundings, and applying these patterns requires adherence to specific rules. I made sure to incorporate all of this into my doll”, Polina explained.
Polina believes that the northern peoples are incredibly resilient, facing numerous challenges every day, which she finds deeply inspiring.
“I have always been amazed by their ability to not only survive in such harsh conditions but also to notice the special moments in their daily lives and translate them into traditional patterns. These symbols are not just designs; they represent a language through which the attire of a member of the indigenous peoples of the North can convey much about both the wearer and their ethnic group”, she added.
Polina’s doll is not merely a toy; it is a powerful symbol that tells the story of the strength, wisdom, and beauty of the people of the Far North.
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Text: Polina Bardik, Photo: Olga Zaderyaka
