By joining the CDAA, doll artists are introduced to many other artists like themselves – people who will support and encourage each other in their artistic endeavors. In addition to connecting artists with each other, the CDAA also provides several programs to help develop skills and technical expertise.
Benefits of Membership
Social Events
To many members, the single most important benefit of joining the CDAA is the introduction to other artists – the connection with other creative people. And what better place to meet potential new friends, than at a CDAA social event? The CDAA helps organize regional picnics and special events. These are all great places to meet fellow artists.
Annual CDAA “Celebration!” Conference
The CDAA annual spring Conference brings doll artists together for a four-day event which includes workshops, seminars, a competition, a public sale, an awards banquet and more. Delegate’s dolls are showcased as part of Canada’s largest annual display of original doll art. Outstanding workshops in the latest techniques are taught by members and by world renowned doll artists.
The CDAA Conference has become one of the most exciting, welcoming and inspirational conferences in North America, drawing artists from across Canada, the United States and Internationally.
Doll Exhibits
Several times per year, the CDAA organizes and participates in shows which highlight member’s work. These can include displays in Galleries, Libraries, local doll shows, and the CreativFestival in Toronto. These are wonderful promotional opportunities not to be missed.
Website
The CDAA Website provides an easy way to promote member’s doll art, and to keep up to date with all CDAA news. With just a click of the mouse, a whole world of opportunities opens up. Members may contribute to a special gallery to showcase their work, participate in online challenges, contribute to themes and submit their latest doll news. The site is constantly updated with the latest information and photos. Members can go there anytime to find out the latest CDAA news: past events, upcoming events, news from members, pin swaps, challenges, everything you ever wanted to know about the Conference. And there are lots of pictures of everyone's amazing artwork!
Newsletter
The CDAA produces a quarterly newsletter designed to keep members in touch and up to date. Members are encouraged to submit articles on dolls they have made, shows they have been to, and techniques they have learned. Each issue is filled to the brim with wonderful photos of member’s doll art. There are artist and event reviews, new member introductions, book reports, tips, and much more. It’s a “good read” in an afternoon with a cup of tea.
Video Library
An extensive free video library service is available to all CDAA members. Our list of available videos includes everything from cloth doll instructions, to techniques in polymer clay, wigging and costuming. Each member may borrow tapes for a two-week period.
Mentor Program
This program pairs any member who would like to learn or improve their doll making skills, with another member who is more experienced with that specific technique. Mentors may also be helpful with providing tips on promotion and marketing.
CDAA Forum
The Forum is an on-line list which is open only to CDAA Members. It’s a place where members are able to connect with each other, share ideas, ask questions, post photos, and learn what’s going on in the CDAA world.
Creative Doll Challenges
CDAA members are invited to participate in the many creative programs available, such as Round Robins, Pin-Swaps, and themed doll Challenges.
Information, Marketing & Promotion
CDAA members receive a detailed Supplier Guide to help them locate hard to find doll making supplies. A Show Guide is available to help members who wish to sell their work. It gives valuable tips on setting up a booth, presentation, pre-show and follow up strategies. The CDAA also provides members with information on submitting photographs to international doll magazines with advance notice of their themes. CDAA members find networking with other members beneficial, while sharing tips on marketing, promotion of their work, and any other information that only experience can provide.
