About the Artist

In March of 2004, Yolanda’s background in design united the designer’s trait of mysticism, cultural background, and infinite hunger for expressing her emotions. Hence, she learned to express herself in a tangible form. From that, an idea blossomed.

Yolanda is an interior designer currently residing in Los Angeles. Since then she has been creating porcelain and vinyl dolls. It all began at her home in Brentwood. It is her ambition to capture the natural expression, and gestures of her ancient people. Her love for antiques and vintage dolls provide the inspiration for her creations. Yolanda Moradzadeh/Sadighpour is the founder and creative force behind each of the unique handcrafted ethnic Persian Dolls produced by her Los Angeles based firm, Yoli’s Dolls.

Born in Kermanshah, Iran, Yolanda developed her unique design talents at San Diego State University where she majored in Interior and Graphic Design. Although she had worked as a free-lance Graphic and Interior designer for many years, Yolanda developed a passion for creating and designing during her early days in college. Missing her hometown in Iran, she began to design dolls that resembled the various villages that she remembered visiting as a child. It was in this manner that she began to see Iran as something she could touch and feel, and be close to again. After immersing herself in the creation of these dolls, she felt that she was not just representing herself, or her family, but an entire country.

With every doll, she attempts to reproduce the feelings and moods of the ethnic people who live in villages and to highlight the characteristics of different nationalities. Although she thoroughly enjoys exploring the many cultures existing in the city of angels, she is no stranger to cultural diversity.

She uses traditional and reproduction fabrics that go through an additional “aging” process. Many of the trims come from vintage petticoats, old button collections and antique ribbons and laces. She collects scraps of beautiful antique brocade fabrics at flea markets, quilter's remnants including gorgeous hand dyed fabrics.

Fantasy allows her to use every inch of her imagination; to her that is freedom. She can get lost for hours in the making of her unique dolls.

“I realized that my own small existence was part of something grand and magnificent, and that everything I had known until now was but a small part of the very long and significant part of the Persian History. I can make something I see in my mind become reality which is a source of un-ending joy for Me.” explains Yolanda.

Yolanda uses rich colors and textures to make a tapestry of amazing art and sophistication. Since the creation of her first one, these beautiful dolls have come into high demand by doll collectors and art connoisseurs alike. Yoli’s Dolls have also become very popular gifts for those who wish to give a special, memorable and long-lasting gifts.

What Inspired the Artist

“Yoli’s Dolls” are unique Handmade Ethnic Persian Dolls each signify a different region of Iran.

Through out centuries, Iran has consisted of myriads of different ethnic tribes that have inhabited its very large region. From the mountains of Tabriz to the deserts of Zahedan, each tribe embodies a different sense of the rich cultural heritage of the country. A major aspect of this culture is the different grabs worn by the men, women, and children of various tribes. Rich with color, embroidery, accessories and unique fabrics centuries old. Tradition has led these tribes to produce beautiful outfits that are now carefully reflected in Yoli's Dolls.

Yolanda expresses, “I believe that a person is as happy as he or she can create; whether it is a sculpture, painting, music or a successful and beautifully created family or job. My wish is that everyone finds that thing that they love to do and create it to their hearts content.”

As a Professional Artist, “I can assure that none of my dolls are mass-produced by who knows how many hands overseas. I Professionally and Individually hand craft each one myself, using the best materials to ensure that you will have a doll you'll be proud of and that will last a lifetime.”

There will come a day when the only legacy left by the tribes are the colorful hand-woven crafts they have woven, and the beautiful clothes and costumes they have worn for generations.