Meet Gamze Tunc | Toy Designer/ Doll Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gamze Tunc and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gamze, what do you attribute your success to?
I believe that empathy is key to creating dolls that truly resonate with people. I take the time to understand my clients’ stories and their emotional connection to their dolls. This allows me to create dolls that are not only physically accurate but also emotionally evocative.

The personalized nature of my dolls is what sets me apart from other doll designers. I am not just creating dolls for mass consumption; I am creating dolls that have a special meaning for each individual client. This makes my dolls even more valuable and cherished.

I am also proud of my ability to create collectible dolls that are both beautiful and unique. My celebrity dolls are meticulously crafted and capture the essence of each star. These dolls are also treasured by adult collectors.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I think my dedication and decision to follow my true passion, quitting a day job to pursue doll making and toy design, set me apart. The emphasis on touching the human soul by designing personalized dolls for individuals and their loved ones adds a deeply emotional and personal dimension to my work.

I’m likely most proud of having the courage to pursue my passion and turn it into a full-time profession. My doll making skills are helping me telling myself to the world. I connect with people through my dolls. It excites me a lot.

My journey likely involves a transition from a day job to dedicating myself to doll making.This might have included honing my skills, building a portfolio, and establishing a brand that emphasizes personalized and collectible dolls.

Was it easy? No 🙂 It wasn’t an easy transition, as pursuing someone’s passion often comes with challenges, both mentally and economically. Overcoming these challenges might have required perseverance, adaptability, and a deep belief in my craft. The strength of my passion likely fueled my determination to overcome obstacles.

Lessons learned along the way…First, I learnt a lot from economically. That’s for sure. If you started your own business you need to quit romanticising world at some point. And unfortunately the real world needs real money:). You should learn to manage your budget. This was one of the manin lessons I’ve learned a long the way. I may have also learned the significance of connecting with customers on an emotional level and the business aspects of running a personalized doll-making venture.

I believe that my brand is not just about creating dolls; it’s about connecting with people’s emotions and telling their unique stories through my ugly dolls. This is me. This is what I do. As far as I have the passion telling stories I want to design these Little Fabiens

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First I would take her to a fish restaurant near the the Bosphorus. Then, I would have guided her through the historical places in our city, such as Topkapı Palace, Galata Tower, and the Basilica Cistern. After that, I would have taken her to Kadıköy where, continuing from the Bull Statue, we would enjoy a Turkish coffee on Bahariye Avenue. Later, we’d head to Taksim, stroll down İstiklal Avenue, and finish the day by having drinks at a nice bar.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many artists I feel grateful but I think my top 3 individuals who have had an impact on my creative journey: Tara McPherson, Mimi Kirchner, and Heidi Kenny.

Tara’s illustrations and toy designs keeps me inspired, especially when it comes to creating unique characters.

Mimi Kirchner has left a lasting impression on my creations, especially with her distinctive ‘tattooed man’ dolls. She is very good in details.

Versatile toymaker and ceramicist Heidi Kenny became a curator through the use of color and imaginative work. I value not only her skills but also her versatility in her creations and ability to turn her hobby in to a business.

I thank Tara, Mimi and Heidi for their influence and guidance in the world of art and toy design, and for helping in understanding my creative vision.

Website: https://linktr.ee/gamzetunc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_fabien/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LittleFabien

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gamzetuncART