Welcome to Doll Artisan Guild COMPETITION

For nearly fifty years, Doll Artisan Guild competition has celebrated excellence in porcelain dollmaking and costuming. D.A.G. Competition offers artists an opportunity to share their work, challenge their skills, learn from experienced judges, and be recognized for their accomplishments. Whether you are entering for the first time or have competed for many years, every entry represents dedication to the art of dollmaking and contributes to its continuing story.

 Competition has been an important part of the Doll Artisan Guild since its earliest years. Founded on Mildred Seeley’s commitment to education and the accurate reproduction of antique dolls, D.A.G. established standards that encouraged dollmakers to study the originals, refine their techniques, and continually improve their work.

As dollmaking evolved, so did D.A.G. Competition. Modern dolls, original sculpting, dimensional doll painting, costuming, and other areas of artistry became part of a tradition that now spans generations of dollmakers around the world. Today’s competition honors that history while continuing to encourage new ideas, techniques, and artistic growth.

 At D.A.G., competition is first and foremost an opportunity to learn.

Each doll is evaluated against established standards by qualified D.A.G. judges—not simply compared with the doll beside it. An artist’s work earns the ribbon it deserves based upon the quality of the work presented. Judges also provide scores and comments designed to help the artist understand both the strengths of the entry and areas that may benefit from further refinement.

Awards and top honors are an exciting part of competition, but they are only part of its purpose. We believe competition should inspire artists to stretch their abilities, appreciate the accomplishments of others, and return to the worktable excited about what they might create next.