Artist Statement

Robert Craner Finds His Joy.
Robert Craner creates one of a kind dolls using polymer clay, fabric made with natural fibers, wire armatures, goat hair, oil paints, and hand painted or hand blown crystal eyes. Painting and printmaking are areas in which Robert was trained, however, figurative sculpture is where he finds his joy. As a young child his father would reward him for good behavior at the doctor or dentist by taking him shopping, usually for a doll. As a child, he added to his collection by making dolls; dolls made from paper, clothespins, detergent bottles, and paper mache. Almost every child in the neighborhood would join in, boys and girls alike. The acceptance of an activity that in the 60s was deemed to be inappropriate for boys by most people fills Robert with warm memories, brings him joy, and fuels his desire to create dolls to this day.