Heads & Heart | Stitched cloth spirit dolls
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Tarble Museum of Art | Charleston, IL
Spirit Dolls have been used for centuries across cultures. Participants will view examples of dolls from the Hopi Indians, African Yoruba, Ancient Rome, and more. These dolls represent our desire to connect ourselves with each other. Today's contemporary dolls are personal artistic expressions. Each participant will create a small stuffed figure using found and repurposed materials. Little sewing experience is needed. Bring buttons, sharp scissors, felt scraps, embroidery thread, beads, or whatever you find lying around.
Learn from local artist Jamie Willis through the Academy of Lifelong Learning at Eastern Illinois University. This workshop offers a wonderful opportunity to explore creativity in a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. If you require an accommodation to fully participate in this event, please contact Alumni Relations at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
Instructor's bio
Jamie Shortal Willis
Jamie is an artist and retired art educator (31 Years). Jamie has taught in local public schools, adjunct faculty at EIU, art camps, and private workshops. Jamie continues to teach adult workshops in watercolor, fiber arts, and bookmaking. Her work is in private and public collections.