TBT224

teddytimbees arCOLLECTABLEBEARSANDOTHERFURRYFRIENDSfree pattern inside £5.99 AUG/SEPT 2016 ■ ISSUE 224 www.teddybeartimes.com Celebrity bears The stories behind broadcaster Gyles Brandreth’s hug Beautiful ■ Meet top artists ■ Make Dreamer BEPPO ■ Bear doctors CATCH UP WITH CLEMENS AND ALL THEIR LATEST LIMITED EDITIONS CUTE COLLARS TO KNIT AND CROCHET 08issue 224 9 771759 908046 >

22 August/September 2016 Issue 224 theinsidetrack 48 SHOW REPORT To reach us: Call +44 (0)1903 884988. 4 THE TEDDY BEARZAAR The Great Yorkshire Teddy Bear Event Or write to: The Editor, Teddy Bear Times, PO Box 2258, PULBOROUGH RH20 9BA Beary news from around the world 55 GINOS BEARS Great Britain email: [email protected] 6 POSTCARD INSPIRATION Cider with Lorraine? Website: www.teddybeartimes.com US office: Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th How a photo sparked a new design 56 BLACK & WHITE DELIGHT Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944, USA. Tel: 507 634 3143 8 CLEMENS-SPIELTIERE Celebrating pandas email: usoffi[email protected] The story of world famous company 58 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS Editor: Jill Mundy email: [email protected] 12 MEET THE ARTIST Bear It In Mind mark ten years US Editor: Lauren Nielsen Email: [email protected] Sue VanNattan’s beautiful Bearlooms 61 THE GROWLER Advertisement sales: UK office: Maria Fitzgerald 16 MEET THE ARTIST Send us your paw post Email: [email protected] US office: Sara Vix Colourful Bekkiebears 62 MAKE A BEAR Email: [email protected] Design: Richard Jennings & 22 PAINTED BEARS Dreamer from Ellence Bears Wendy Crosthwaite Meet artist Miki de Goodaboom 68 AWARD WINNERS Subscriptions: UK: [email protected] 26 SHOW PREVIEW This year’s ITBAA results US: usoffi[email protected] Published by ashdown.co.uk. ISSN 0961 - 0944 Looking forward to Winter Bearfest 70 DEAR JULIE Distributed to the newstrade by Comag. Subscription prices: 30 THE SALE ROOM Solving troubles with seams One year: (6 issues) UK £42; US $74.99. European and worldwide prices will be Special bears at auction 72 THE BEAR DOCTORS adjusted to local currencies. See online for details at www.teddybeartimes.com or 32 CELEBRITY BEARS Meet the latest patients please call +44 (0)1903 884988. All of our subscriptions are handled by us at TBT. Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth’s bears 75 REAL BEARS www.teddybeartimes.com 35 WHERE I WORK Orphaned cubs rehomed Postmaster: Send address corrections to Ashdown Inc, 68132 Jan Aldogan of Jan’s Tiddy Bears 76 DIARY OF AN ARTIST 250th Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944, USA. Canada Post Interna- tional Publications Mail - Sales Agreement No. 546038. 36 MEET THE ARTIST Double trouble for Andy West All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. All editorial Masha Rezvova dares to be different 78 BEAR CRAFT contributions are welcomed by Teddy Bear Times but material is accepted solely on the basis that the author accepts the as- 38 SHOW REPORT Collars to knit and crochet sessment of the Publisher as to its commercial value. All material submitted to the magazine for publication in Schaumberg Teddy Bear Gallery 80 COLLECTOR’S CORNER whatever form is accepted solely on the basis that copyright in the work will be vested in the publisher who assumes all 40 MEET THE ARTIST Mark Allen introduces his hug rights worldwide, in all forms and in all media. © copyright ashdown.co.uk Ursula Schwartz of ARTig & frech 82 BEARY LAST WORD2 TEDDY BEAR TIMES 44 SHOW REPORT Bad bear day advice The Quinlan Teddy Bear Show 46 OLD BEARS Panda appeal

abearybigwelcome 16 40 Teddy bears have such a timeless ap- 12 peal don’t they? Whether the bear is new or old and regardless of the age 8 of the owner, a hug from a special bear can work wonders. 3T E D D Y B E A R T I M E S Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth says teddy bears are like children - youshouldn’t have favourites! You can read all abouthis huge hug and we also meet American collectorMark Allen and some of his bears. Ukraine bear artist Lyubov Bugaeva was in-spired to recreate an old photograph, having im-agined a whole story about the two strangers whocaptivated her. We’d love to hear your bear stories and specialmemories so do write in and tell us. Hugs Jill & the team Since it is now available all over the United States and our worldwide read- ership is constantly growing, Teddy Bear Times thought it about time to add a US Editor to the mix–and that’s me! My name is Lauren Nielsen and I’m part of the USA Teddy Bear Times team, both writing and editing for themagazine. I’ve always loved teddy bears and, as is the casewith most of us, I had a treasured teddy bear grow-ing up. I still have that bear who is now a vintageVermont Teddy Bear. When I started working onthe TBT team, I was blown away by the beautifulartistry of all of these bears – and I continue to beevery day. I look forward to discovering more about theartistry and collecting of teddy bears, both throughresearch and through our devoted readers. I hopeyou enjoy this lovely issue we’ve put together foryou. Until next time… LaurenHave your collection featuredin TBT.We’d love to see yourfavourite bears. Email [email protected] for more details.

THETEDDY BEARZAARBEAR AND CRITTER NEWS, GOSSIP, FASHION, AND MORE. EMAIL [email protected] bInetraurdeenrcilnospuorelarLook after your collection Keepers at RZSS Highland Wildlife Park were recentlyThe new TBT slip cases are the perfect place shocked to discover a brownto keep your magazines neat and tidy and in bear in the female polarthe best possible condition. £12.99 each plus bear’s enclosure. There waspostage. Order them online at www.teddy no sign of Victoria at all -beartimes.com/issues or call 01903 884988 just a seemingly different type of bear altogether. However, closer inspection revealed that the bear was indeed Victoria who had been enjoying a good rough and tumble on the soft ground of her large enclosure. She was covered head to paw in mud but soon cleaned off after a dip in her pond.Cornish bear Bear Bits back onlinemuseum wish Anyone visiting the Bear Bits website overThanks to UK charity Make-A- the past few months will have been disap-Wish® UK, Elspeth Meikle from pointed to find it has not been working. JeanWest Lothian was invited to be told TBT that the site went down for a whileguest of honour for the official but it is now fixed and new bears are beingopening of the Charlie Bears posted once more.Gallery on 1st July. Five-year-old Do take a look.Elspeth, who sadly lost her sight www.bearbits.comas a result of Neurofibromatosis,owns quite a few Charlie Bears, Hugglets ThReAdTeDs® Colourful classicswhich she recognises by their diary dateclothes, bells and fur textures. Brighten up your hug withWhen Make-A-Wish contacted Remember one of the colourful new de-Charlie Bears as Elspeth wanted remember 11th signs from Petra van Rooijen-to meet the people behind the September and Postma. Always beautifullybears she loves so much, William make your way accessorised, Petra’s Be-and Charlotte didn’t hesitate to to Kensing- reguod Bears have a vintageask her to join them at their new ton Town Hall, charm inspired by her lovemuseum - with a teddy bears’ London for this of lace, ribbons and old glasspicnic included, of course! year’s Hugglets buttons. See more at www. Winter Bearfest. bereguod.nl See page 26 for more details.4 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

Wildlife Park welcomes tiny giant cNoenwvevnetnioune for USFor only the born ‘Nelson’ in PAWS FOR The Teddy Bear Artist Invitationalsecond time in honour of the late THOUGHT Convention (TBAI) is an ac-the Park’s history, singer - Prince claimed international bear artista baby Giant Ant- Rogers Nelson. “The gypsies show. Each year has a specialeater has been The pup can be believe the theme and for this year’s 22ndborn at the UK’s seen hitching a bear to be convention it will be ‘Critters Ga-Cotswold Wildlife ride on his moth- a brother to lore - Bears ’n’ More’. Each artistPark. Keepers er’s back around man because bear entered in the gallery is soldnamed the new- the enclosure. he has the to raise funds for endangered same body animal species.Collectors Corner beneath his 2016 sees TBAI move to the Holi- hide, because day Inn Syracuse/Liverpool, 441Do you have an interesting he drinks beer, Electronics Parkway, Liverpool,bear collection? Is there a because he New York. Artists from the Unitedspecial story attached to enjoys music States, Canada, Japan and theone of you bears? and because United Kingdom will be show-We have a new feature he likes to casing their bears and crittersstarting from this issue dance.” between 18th and 20th August.of TBT and we need you! For more information, to pre-Mark Allen sets the scene Ernest Hemingway view the gallery or to make youron page 80 with an insight reservation, contact us by e-mailinto how he became an @ [email protected] or call 518-562-avid arctophile and we 4076, visit the website: www.tbai.hear about some of the bears in his collection. org or follow Teddy Bear ArtistIf you’d like to have your bears featured in a future Invitational (TBAI) on facebook.issue, please contact one of our editors, Jill or Lauren,with a few details and some photos. Upcoming bear fairsEmail [email protected] or [email protected] We’re looking forward to hearing August 6-7: Online show, Brightfrom you! Star Promotions August 29: Nottingham Bear Fair September 3-4: Niesje Wolters Doll & Teddy Bear Fair, Bruge September 11: Hugglets Winter Bearfest November 20th: Great Yorkshire Christmas Convention 5T E D D Y B E A R T I M E S

ADVERTORIALPostcard sparks designinspiration for KuscheldirTwo weather-beaten faces looking out from a postcardset teddy bear artist Lyubov Bugaeva thinking about theirstory and inspired her to recreate them in thread BY LYUBOV BUGAEVA. TRANSLATED FOR TBT BY ANDREAS KURZBOECK hen, I can’t tell you precisely conceals the memories of their life- “Why did I choose blue!?” time. ‘Probably they were happy’ - is But in any case, it was what the oldW when…about one or two the thought that comes involuntarily. years ago…I saw this image And at the same time, the idea oc- woman suggested. ‘Mysticism’ - I pictured on a postcard and it curred to me to make hares. thought. ‘Probably the lady doesn’tremained in my heart. It has imprinted want to fade, she wants to live herin my memory, as though it is a shot As the photo is in grisaille (black life from the beginning again... to befrom my own life. and white), I had the opportunity to young, to mature and grow old’. fantasise about their clothes a little. I I don’t know at what level the lady in have chosen indigo as the man has a So let them be fresh and bright. Andthe photograph has bewitched me but medal on is jacket. And I have decided they will be made old by time but notshe refused to remain unnoticed. that he is a seaman - part of the fleet of by me. the English Queen and so blue shades Old suit, shabby cylinder, shabby will be pertinent. Lyubov Bugaeva will be at Hugglets,hat, the rumpled lines of the faces.... in stand 25 or visit www.kuscheldir.comthese figures there is no hopelessness. I prepared a hat, a dress and trou-They are full of humility and under- sers and made a trial of the colours I About the imagestanding of life, it seems to me. wanted to be used; then I came to the question of toning and ageing. To my At the time she created the The lively but quiet female’s look surprise, it turned out that only brown hares, Lyubov did not know that(the man’s eyes are almost not visible) colours allowed themselves to ap- the image is noted: ‘Veteran of pear muted. They aged with ease and Waterloo and his wife’, from about I found great pleasure in seeing how 1850-60, photographer unknown. they changed and all the new shades from light-beige to such brown colours Lyubov lives very near the cur- that are not present in any palette from rent war zone in Eastern Ukraine factories. and fears that terrorists will de- stroy her right to live her full life But Indigo (in my case the colour and grow old as god intended. of a sea wave) didn’t want to change, The image of the two people even to tone down or to fade. After resonated deeply with her for that each experience with indigo, it re- reason. mained blue, blue, blue... and the old woman from the photo laughed at me THE BEAR FACTS: with her confident gaze. “She knows that - and other things that aren’t Lyubov Bugaeva known by me” - I thought. email: offi[email protected] web: www.kuscheldir.com Searching on the internet, it turned from: Ukraine out that indigo is one of the most resist- ant dyes and since 1866 it has been ar- tificially synthesised. I sat and thought:6 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

R. John Wright2402 West Rd. Bennington, Vermont 05201 rjohnwright.com Fairy Tale Mice

BUSINESS PROFILE A lifetime of teddy bears and international renown With distribution coming soon to America, Clemens Bears shares its long-storied history of their collectible teddy bears and cherished plush toys BY CLEMENS-SPIELTIERE n 1948, soon after the end of World decided to help his customers and core set of beliefs: “Qual- began producing teddy bears from old ity, safety, and precision,I War II, Hans Clemens and his fam- army blankets. His sister made them as well as the love of fine ily arrived in Kirchardt, Germany. by hand, each lovingly and individually detail have top priority They had moved from Alsace and made. This was only the beginning for for Clemens. For almostlost nearly everything. He opened Clemens and his bears. 70 years, this has been thea retail trade business in Mannheim company’s motto and it shallselling glass, porcelain and gifts but The demand for the bears in- stay that way. The aim is towas constantly asked by customers creased, leading Clemens to hire more satisfy every customer desirefor teddy bears, since these didn’t employees. Business was flourishing and not to neglect the wishes ofexist during the war. Hans Clemens and while there were many obstacles collectors and children.” to overcome within the industry, the unmistakeable style and quality of Peter Clemens took over his Clemens’ bears only strengthened the father’s business, but retired company as a whole. from management in 2002 to concentrate on developing Today, Clemens is a well-known new designs and concepts for quality maker of soft toys, teddy bears their collections. and collectibles in Germany. Through- out the years, Clemens has consistently Clemens is world famous held the same mission statement and for its family of Nostalgia mo- hair teddy bears made with all natural fibres, mohair, glass eyes, and cotton stitching. This family of mohair bears is made in 10cm, 15cm, 20cm, 30cm, 40cm and 50cm. The sizes 30cm-50cm arrive with a growler so they make a delightful growl when moved side to side. Each bear is born from an original design. Before the production process begins each design is critically evalu- ated in order to ensure that the best bear is produced. To produce plush animals is considerably more difficult than to produce other types of toys. It is not a matter of creating moulds but of perfecting each step of the bear making process; creating a plush animal that is identical to the reference8 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

BUSINESS PROFILEsample takes a lot of discipline and is sewn together inside out beforehard work. This can be seen by the being assembled. Then the bears arefact that every seamstress at Clemens sent to the stuffing department to gethas been trained for a minimum of six their final shape. But there is still workmonths. to be done: seams are scraped out, the fur is fluffed, the stuffing is properly Clemens bears are composed of positioned and wrinkles are smoothedmany intricate parts. Upon closer out. After which the facial expressioninspection one will discover that the is added with an airbrush to draw thebear is composed of around 20 pieces snout, eye corners and mouth.of plush. At Clemens-Spieltiere theteddy bears do not go through a pro- With the addition of the necklet,duction line; they are actually individu- the bears must pass the final qualityally hand-made. Each part of the bear inspection to receive the Clemens- 9T E D D Y B E A R T I M E S

BUSINESS PROFILE Spieltiere trademark label. With this, each bear becomes a part of the long Clemens tradition. Although the appearance of the bears may have changed, the quality and care in producing a Clemens-Spieltiere bear remains the same. Within the ranks of Clemens Bears are a few special edition and very rare bears that collectors have searched for throughout the years. “…especially some of the limited edition mohair bears from the 1950s such as Teddy Sammy. Also Clemens produced some beautiful musical bears in the 1990s, like Traumer. This musical bear is quite rare and much sought after by collec- tors. He is made of beautiful brown mohair and his head moves slowly to a music box inserted in the bear, which is played using a small handle at the back of the teddy.” Over the years, Clemens has col- laborated with designers all over the world to produce their amazing, adorable and delightful limited edition pieces. They are currently collaborat-10 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

ing with Katya Be- Clemens have already worked in partner with so American customers spalova, Anna Dazu- the past with US designers, such as and bear lovers can enjoy and appre- mal, Martina Lehr, Isabella Hoffmann who lives in Wiscon- ciate this much loved brand. Solvate Bauble, Jack sin and designed for Clemens from & Marion Finhold, 2005 to 2013. Clemens are constantly And while Clemens is expand- Gelibears, and Ren looking for new designers to enrich ing and becoming increasingly more Bears. This ensures the assortment, so there is always the popular, they will always remain faithful a wide selection of possibility of working with other US to their core beliefs: “To create high designers in the future. quality, amazing collectibles as well aslimited edition teddy adorable, cuddly teddy bears and soft bears each year–from Clemens-Spieltiere is excited to toys for children to cherish and love.” the classic German announce Clemens Bears Original as style of short mohair its exclusive US distributors. Matthew THE BEAR FACTS: teddy bears by Anna Reynolds, the director looking after US Dazumal to some distribution, can be contacted on info@ Clemens Bears of the quirky, mohair clemensbearsoriginal.com. by Clemens-Spieltiere GmbH, Germany rabbits and mice by US distributor - Clemens Bears Original Clemens Bears Original are looking US enquiries: [email protected] & Marion Finhold. for quality and premium retailers to 11TEDDY BEAR TIMES

MEET THE ARTIST Beautiful Bearlooms make teddy collectors fall in love Bear artist Sue VanNattan of Carlinville, Illinois creates sweet fluffy bears for her Bearlooms business and knows just what they need to make collectors fall in love BY LAUREN NIELSEN THE BEAR FACTS: ue VanNattan lives and making sure all the details are just right! I also put special wir- Sue VanNattan, Bearlooms S creates teddies in the ing inside each bear’s arms to email: [email protected] pretty Midwestern town allow him to be posed in many call: (217) 854-9439 of Carlinville, population ways. It’s always a thrill when from: USA 5,400, right in the middle of Il- a collector tells me that my linois. Introduced to the con- bears look ‘as though they are12 TEDDY BEAR TIMES cept of ‘artist bears’ in 1993, “I about to speak!’” planned to make ‘just one’ for myself,” Two steps down from her family Sue shared. “At the time, I was em- room, her workspace is in the form ployed as a floral designer, a job I thor- of a small studio. This close proximity oughly enjoyed for over 25 years. As allows Sue to divide her ‘teddy time’ happens to many of us, one bear led to between the two areas. “Saving hand another and soon people were asking work for evenings when I can watch TV for them. My ‘Bearlooms’ business was with my husband of 46 years.” born!” she exclaimed. Sue is also often joined by their two indoor-only kitties. “Weasley, a red Sue’s favourite medium is mohair: Maine Coon cat and Dobby, our House “Oh, the colours, the finishes...it’s just Elf are my constant companions and SO enticing! I’m always drawn to the help by napping on mohair I’ve laid best of the best. Occasionally, I en- out to cut or by running off with an ear joy the challenge of dyeing or over- when I’m not watching closely. There’s dyeing. I find that it’s wise to be open never a dull moment!” to possibilities because the resulting “My artistic heroes are my good colour is often a surprise” friends Wanda Carson, JoAnne O’Hanlon and the late beloved Barbara The bears Sue creates usually run Burke,” Sue told us. “Each one has between 9” and 16” with an occasional inspired, encouraged and instructed smaller one. And sometimes a rare big me and made me laugh! I’ve found that bear of 22” comes along as well. “I do teddy bear artists are the most giving, love big bears, but many collectors sharing, generous bunch of people don’t have space for them,” Sue noted. anywhere and I’m awfully proud to be part of this group!” “Lately, I’ve been incorporating Over the past 20 years, Sue and her inset faces of long, dense, fluffy mohair husband, Jim, have travelled all over which can be meticulously scissor- the country doing shows and attending sculpted for a sweet, child-like expres- conventions in Las Vegas, Washington, sion,” she continued about her bears’ D.C., Phoenix, Binghamton, N.Y. and features, “It’s more trouble but it’s worth it! As we all know, it’s the FACE that is the most difficult and the most important. I’ll gladly spend many hours

‘ BEARLOOMS SHOWCASE‘As we all know, it’s the FACE that is the most difficult and the most important. 13TEDDY BEAR TIMES

MEET THE ARTISTPhiladelphia with many more in be- all over the world. I’m just in awe of the things that will one day find their waytween. “We’ve made the BEST friends fact that my ‘small town bears’ are now into a teddy’s arms.”and have had so many adventures!” globe-trotting teddies. If you’d like toshe notes. receive a message containing a link to Sue admitted: “Like most of us, I’ve each online show that will be featur- kept the first bear I ever made.” Her One of Sue’s special creations, ‘Long ing my newest Bearlooms creations, daughter, Sarah, has some specialJohn Silver’, made for the Teddy Bear please email me!” ones and the rest of Sue’s creationsArtists’ Invitational in New York, was are all documented in a photographicpurchased for the Susan Quinlan Doll Over the past ten years, Sue and record. “Photography has become aand Teddy Bear Museum in Santa her husband have also been antique joy for me and I love to work and workBarbara, California. “That teddy is liv- dealers in several malls, allowing her until I capture JUST the right expres-ing the good life!” she added. “Today to ‘treasure hunt’. This has resulted in sion for each bear,” she stated.I’m travelling to fewer shows but I’m numerous discoveries in the way ofdelighted to participate in online teddy vintage toys or accessories that “… “I feel so blessed to be able tobear shows which give me a wonder- give birth to new teddy ideas. I have create little individuals that bring joyful opportunity to have my creations a large ‘inspiration’ shelf in my studio to others and I have no plans to slowseen and adopted by collectors from which is just bursting with wonderful down. My head is always full of new ideas just waiting to come to life.14 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

Specializing inCharlie Bears& Kaycee Bears NEW Clemens Bears We also carry Steiff & One-of-a-kind Minky Bears & Hares www.beaconsglow.com [email protected] 512-990-9881 (USA) 15TEDDY BEAR TIMES

MEET THE ARTIST Welcome to the colourful world of Bekkiebears With bears in all colours of the rainbow, the future looks very bright for Rebekka Omtzigt-Mudde and her Bekkiebears BY REBEKKA OMTZIGT OF BEKKIEBEARS THE BEAR FACTS: live in the beautiful old city of Delft patience I sometimes lack and doesn’t mind carrying my bags with fabrics Rebekka Omtzigt-Mudde - Bekkiebears iin the Netherlands, famous for its and other stuff whenever we go to fairs. email: [email protected] Delft Blue pottery. There are a lot web: www.bekkiebears.nl of little canals here and the second Although not a fervent bear lover www.etsy.com/nl/shop/Bekkiebears largest church tower in the Nether- before, I can remember bears that lands which you can climb for a really caught my eye even when I was still16 TEDDY BEAR TIMES nice view over the city. My house, young. When I was about ten years old, though not very big, is a beautiful I spotted a beautiful bear in a toy shop. property from around 1900. I have It was four months before Sinterklaas nice stained glass windows and I just (a Dutch tradition where on the 5th of love my front door which has a little December, you give each other gifts). secret window in it. Living almost next I made sure my mum knew this was to the Technical University and ‘The the present to get. Being afraid that Porceleyne Fles’ (the oldest and last someone else would like it, I hid it well remaining pottery of Delft), the street behind all the other stuffed toys, again is always buzzing with students and and again. A month before Sinterklaas tourists. it had disappeared. I was really disap- pointed but I needn’t have been be- I started bear making in 2013. After cause to my big surprise I had a large a few difficult years in my life I met my present waiting on Sinterklaas! husband-to-be, David, in 2011 and we got married the same year. When he Because of physical restraints I do found a good job in Delft I decided to not have a job. Bear making began as make a fresh new start and left Lek- a hobby and a way to pass time but kerkerk, where I grew up and moved now it is beginning to take up more with my husband to Delft. Learning and more of my life. I just love it so how to make a bear had always been a much. Sometimes now, my husband secret desire. After we’d made a trip to gets home and needs to cook and Oostende, Belgium and David bought clean because I want to finish a par- me an artist bear, I thought it was time ticular bear. He doesn’t mind and likes to make one myself and I finally had to see me so happy. If you count all the the money to do so. little trips I make in order to get sup- plies, I’m almost busy with bears full I learned the trade from a very time; it’s my life. experienced artist living not far from Delft and from the very first moment I I make mostly traditional style bears. was hooked. Ever since I decided to What makes mine a little different is go for bear making, David has been that, although traditional in design, I a real support to me. Without him really like to use vibrant colours. I usu- my label would not exist. He has the ally dress them too - of course, very

MEET THE ARTIST 17TEDDY BEAR TIMES

MEET THE ARTISTcolourful again. The bears come in all fabric. Sometimes I get in real trouble explain what that does to me. Like I’vesizes, from the tiniest being smaller because I choose a fabric that is really brought new life into the world. I alsothan 2 inches up to about 23 inches. I’d hard to work with. can get very excited while being ‘onlove to try even bigger someday. My the hunt’ for beautiful fabrics. Just thefavourite however is a 20 inch bear, My inspiration usually comes from other day I found this gorgeous piecetraditional and dressed to the max. the beautiful pieces of fabric and lace of lace, in Paris, and I can’t wait to turn that lay in the house. Don’t forget all it into a dress! Although dreaming of having my the jewellery of course. I just need toown studio one day, right now I’m just open a cabinet and I’m flooded with Looking back to where I started,making my bears in the living room. ideas. I am always amazed to see how I can’t believe I had the guts to sellI have a very large supply of materi- a design comes about in real life. It some of my bears back then. I’m justals but because I do not like a messy sometimes is so different than what I so thankful to the people who sup-workplace, everything is cleverly imagined, like the bear had a mind of ported me. Although closer to home athidden in cabinets. Usually I design his own. first, now my bears find homes all overdresses for my bears, with yards and the world, from Hawaii to Japan. Theyards of lace from all over the world. The most exciting time is when the design hasn’t changed that much butBut I think I’m especially known for the head is finished and a happy smiling my technical skills have greatly im-vibrant colours. character looks back at me. I usu- proved over the years which gives me ally save this for last and I really can’t great hope for the future. I’m surrounded by a lot of bears butI also love Mary Gregory glass and I sell my bears primarily troughDelft pottery. Most people love it when Bearpile and Etsy but also via my ownthey come in. There are so many things website and the popular website in theto see and so many colours! I also like Netherlands “Marktplaats” (market-pillows, so when sitting on my couch place). Although it has become easierworking, I’m surrounded by a dozen to see them go, it still remains dif-tapestry pillows with paintings of Van ficult sometimes. It is a great comfortGogh and other artists. to know that there are so many bear lovers out there which take such great One thing all Bekkiebears have in care of (my) bears.common is their smile. Having strug-gled with depression, I really like to be One of my favourites must besurrounded by smiles, they give me so Orknus. He was inspired by mymuch joy. trip to the heart of Neolithic Although I find mohair is usually Orkney, off the coast ofeasiest to work with, I’m mostly Scotland. It was such aattracted by the colours of a special place, where I18 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

MEET THE ARTISThad wanted to go for a long time and Iwanted to remember it. The other mustbe Johanna, a big beautiful yellow lady,which I give secret cuddles to when I’mfeeling a bit low. She has pride place inour bedroom. Or Pip, worst fabric everbut the greatest smile you can think of!Oh boy, I guess I just can’t choose. There are a few bears that are‘adopted’ by me. They’re so cute andI just can’t part with them. One bearwhich will never go away is Moogie, abig beautiful guy made of golden fauxfur. I made him for my mum. He saton her bed while she was terminallyill. She died quite suddenly this year.Moogie was the last bear she saw, sonow takes pride of place in my livingroom. What of the future? I have always toomany plans but never enough time. I definitely want to continue to be atfairs, they are such inspirational placesto go to and a great way to meet otherartists. I’d like to take more classes inhow to sew clothes so my bears willlook even better. For the long run, Ihope that I can make every idea I havea reality and become, with a lot of pa-tience and endurance, a well seasonedbear artist, preferably with my ownstudio. I do believe in life that neverends and that gives me an eternity tolook forward to. 19TEDDY BEAR TIMES

To advertise in our artist gallery section (see pages 51 to 54) Contact Maria: + 44 (0) 7730 622416 email: [email protected] or Sara: 001 507 634 3143 email: [email protected] One of a kind award Delightful collectible bears winning bears lovingly handcrafted from the finest quality fabrics, specialising Email: [email protected] www.blinkobears.co.uk in turning vintage fur coats Find us on Facebook into heirloom bears. www.bearleighbears.com Email: [email protected] +9 61 438016714. (Australia)ARTIST BEARS 8a CROSS STREET,STEIFF SAFFRON WALDENMERRYTHOUGHTHERMANN ESSEX CB10 1EXCHARLIE BEARS +44 (0) 1799 527222ISABELLECOLLECTION MAIL ORDERHANSA TOYS WORLDWIDEBABY GIFTS INTEREST FREEAND MUCH MORE! LAYAWAY SECURE ON-LINE PURCHASING www.abracadabra-teddies.comDonna Griffin www.DonnaAndTheBears.com w w w. J U L I E S H E P H E R D . c o m20 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

Our entire collection is now available from www.gund.co.uk carriage is FREE in the UK Enesco Limited, Head Office & Customer Services, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 0EN Tel: 01228 404022 Fax: 01228 404041 email: [email protected] © 2016 GUND. en6467-gund-b2c-teddy-bear-times-ad-jun16.indd 1 07/06/2016 13:25call us toll free FREEtCoalrletcoedivaey1 800 447-7995 catalogswww.TheToyShoppe.com continental US 21TEDDY BEAR TIMES

ARTIST PROFILEAdding up the options,creating possibilitiesFor mathematics expert Miki, a couple of unhappyevents led her to start painting teddy bears, setting heron a new tangent - as a successful artist BY JILL MUNDY f authors have pen one of her own. “The first is always with me, even physically, bear I painted was some looking at me through the beautifuli names then Miki de years ago, a bear called eyes of Truffle.” Goodaboom is the “Camembert”, a big bear ‘brush’ name of the which belonged to my part- Miki started to paint Truffle moretalented artist who loves to ner’s mother. But I painted it regularly and, one year ago, set up apaint teddy bears. only in the context of a series Facebook page for him. “He tells the of general still life paintings. world about his life and adventures as Born in the South of Then I received my very first a teddy bear. And of course, I illustrateFrance, where she lived until teddy bear of my own, ‘Truf- his stories!she was 19 years old, Miki fle McFurry’, and I startedhas also spent more than 20 painting him a bit. When I think about “More generally I have really startedyears in Germany and now it now, I am amazed that I never had a specialising in painting teddy bearslives in Spain. “I live in Turre, a pretty teddy bear in my life before then. The and some months ago, set up thelittle town in the north of Andalusia. It is reason might be that the teddy culture website ‘Go Teddy!’ The reason whybeautifully nestled between a sen- for girls is not very developed in my I took that decision is that during asational range of mountains and the home country (France). I think they painting trip to the National Park ofMediterranean sea. Shared between prefer to give bears to boys and dolls Cabo de Gata (Spain) I stopped in Ni-Spaniards, English and many other to girls. I hope it will change, because jar, a beautiful little town. But I was notnationalities, Turre has kept its Spanish from my point of view, there is no bet- five minutes in the town when I got sofeel, unlike many other tourist places ter friend for a child, girl or boy, (and incredibly scared by something I saw:along the Spanish Mediterranean for some adults too, like me...) than a one big Teddy bear, slit open, was sit-coast.” Teddy Bear. ting under a tree, tied to a long wood- “The reason why and how Truffle en post and a bit further away, another Recognised for her vibrant colours entered my life is in fact a very sad sto-and loose, free style, Miki has been a ry. Three years ago I suddenly lost myfull time artist for 15 years. Before that brother. My partner, an English musi-she was working as a mathematician cian, in a desperate effort to comfortand business consultant in Germany. me, gave me that beautiful Teddy bear“Mathematics is my first passion and with the big dark expressive eyes. Hemy first profession.” was wearing a jumper with the words ‘I love you more than chocolate’ embroi- The name ‘Goodaboom’ (intended dered on it. So I decided to call himto evoke the contradiction of ‘Bad-a- ‘Truffle’. In French, ‘Truffle’ means notboom’) means mainly a good ex- only the chocolate pralines but also theplosion of feelings, art and colours. nose of a bear.”“Which partly characterises me and Since then, Truffle has been every-my art. Goodaboom is the name of where with Miki. “It is as if my brotherthe planet on which I live with all thecreatures I love.” As a child, Miki didn’t have a teddybear and was an adult before she had22 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

ARTIST PROFILEone, a tiny little one, was hanging in theair from a post! There were other sadcreatures too, also tied to posts - dollsand a green mini-cow. It broke myheart and so I decided to found ‘GoTeddy!’, a league for the love, protec-tion and support of all the Teddy Bearsaround the world.” It is important to Miki to paint thebears so that they seem to be alive.“As if they have heart and soul; not assimple toys or a still life. The feedbackI have had from people suggests to methat the most striking aspect of themis the tenderness they convey. When Ipaint bears, I ‘speak’ with them, evenif I know them only from photographspeople have sent to me. I try to find outand focus on what makes each of themso special and unique.” When Miki moved to her presentlocation, she was lucky to have the 23TEDDY BEAR TIMES

ARTIST PROFILEopportunity to purchase three flats of inspiration. “Truffle has developed are too close to my heart - it wouldnext to each other. It took a lot of work a life of his own somehow, he has got almost be like selling my own children.to connect them but it certainly seems a character now, passions, things he What I sell are prints of those paintings,to have been worthwhile. “One of the loves and hates; he has many cousins in many different forms. Prints to beflats was transformed into an exhibition and friends and is also very interested framed, on paper, canvas or metal, andgallery and workshop, with one room in sport and in the news. So I paint on many different home decor objects,dedicated to gouache and watercolour everything which touches his life and such as duvet covers, pillows, bags,painting. The bathroom of that same this is why my gallery of teddy bear phone cases, towels, etc.”flat was set up as a room in which I can paintings is called ‘The Wonderworldpaint acrylic works in a special tech- of Truffle McFurry’. There are lots of plans for the futurenique which is quite wild and leaves and Miki knows that, as she lovespaint everywhere! In one of the other “Also, I have two permanent ‘photo bears so much, they will be a part offlats is the workshop where I paint the reporters’ working at Go Teddy, ‘Ann it. “I have the dream that Teddy Bearslarge works in acrylics on canvas. I La Mar’ and Kev le Chat’ and they send from around the world must not onlyalso have a very large table area in my me photographs and stories whenever be loved but also protected. It mightoffice, next to the computer, where I they see interesting teddy bears or sound a bit exaggerated but havingdo the smaller works for which I need special motifs involving bears.” seen them full of holes, hanging on aphotographic reference and internet pole, then you cannot help thinkingresearch.” I mainly sell my paintings through they need to be protected, like animals my galleries on the internet and some- or children. Experienced in many techniques, times through my own physical gallery.Miki relishes being able to change as But the internet is, for me, by far the “My plans are to have a full teamthe mood takes her. “Generally, when I best way to reach as many people as of ‘reporters’ from around the world,have painted for a while in watercolour, possible, without losing my freedom. In sending me photos, telling me Teddyfor example, I need a radical change, the past I have mounted many ‘real’ ex- Bear stories, explaining to me whichsomething like acrylics. And after that hibitions in various galleries but they role Teddy Bears have in their life andI might go over to a dry technique like demanded much work and commit- culture. I have noticed that they are be-coloured pencils. All of my teddy Bear ment, too much for me who values my coming more and more present on thepaintings have been painted in water- freedom so much. I also need so much TV, in ads and in films, at least in suchcolour or gouache on fine art paper… time to paint all the wonderful things I countries as the UK, Germany, Franceso far.” want to paint and there are very many.” and USA. I also know from an artist in Cameroon, Africa, that Teddy Bears Truffle McFurry is still a big source Miki has kept all of her original are not for sale in his country, except teddy bear paintings to date. “They24 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

ARTIST PROFILEaround Christmas and then only in theChinese shops. “But further than that I don’t knowand I would love to know! My hopeis that people with a favourite Teddyand a very special personal story willcontact me, send me photos, tell methe story and I would paint it. Just formy own pleasure or on commission ifthey want me to. I once specialised inpersonalised portraits (people, chil-dren, celebrities,) and I want to adaptthese ideas to my Teddy Bear plans.Painting celebrity bears from the filmand literature world, painting yourbear with one of these celebrity bears,painting all your bears together, repro-ducing famous paintings and replac-ing the people with bears...my head isexploding with ideas. I simply hope that Teddy bear loversfrom around the world will ‘Go Teddy’with me and Truffle McFurry to helpme realise this dream! THE BEAR FACTS: Miki de Goodaboom email: [email protected] web: www.goodaboom.com Go Teddy!: goteddy.m 25TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW PREVIEW Don’t miss the next Winter Bearfest As summer draws to a close, there’s always a popular bear fair to look forward to and it attracts hundreds of visitors each year BY JILL MUNDY f you have even a tiny bit of inter- be on hand if you have a particular bear you’d like to know more about i est in teddy bears, you should find and poorly bears can be taken along your way to Kensington Town Hall, to our very own Bear Doctors for as- London on Sunday 11th Septem- sessment. ber 2016 for the next Hugglets Winter Bearfest. Organisers Irene and Glenn Jack- mann are always there to greet you Four halls, 170 stands with around with a friendly smile and are happy to 10,000 bears - all of them wanting you point you in the direction of a par- to take them home. It really is the best ticular artist or stockist. But even if place to be. you think you already know who you want to see, do leave time to browse Among the exhibitors you will the other stands. There are so many discover artist creations from all over different styles and sizes of bears, as the world as well as the UK. From Rus- well as a few other furry creatures, that sia, Germany, The Netherlands, USA, you may just spot the next ‘must have’ France, Sweden, Belgium and more… friend for your hug. it really is a multi-national experience. And there will be plenty of opportunity Travel options make getting there to buy collector and antique bears easy, with a large car park right below from various well known suppliers. the town hall and access to bus and Underground links nearby. There are Experts such as Vectis Auctions will refreshments on site so you can take a welcome break for a cuppa and a sandwich when you feel the need. Free entry tickets for each event can be found at the back of the UK Teddy Bear Guide or can be purchased at the door (£4 adult / £2 child). Plus, from the beginning of August, visitors will be able to register for free e-tickets on the Hugglets Facebook site www. facebook.com/hugglets ‘You may just spot the‘ next ‘must have’ friend for your hug.26 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW PREVIEW 27TEDDY BEAR TIMES

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for L O V A B L E B E A R S Hugglets, Hall 2 stand 79.Email: [email protected] www.lovablebears.fr 29TEDDY BEAR TIMES

THE SALE ROOMThese bears had theauction house rockingWith a huge number of bears in the recent Vectisauction, one special collection had connectionsto a very well known rock star ectis Auctions are well known BY LOUISE HARKER, VECTIS AUCTIONS horizontally stitched nose, the fully jointed bear, with worn velveteenV for their Doll and Teddy Bear whiskers, felt ears, fully jointed, metal pads and black claw stitching was Sales and it was for this reason pin joints, wearing white cotton knick- fitted with a bellows musical mecha- that Jo Wood - model, entrepre- ers and a brown and white check nism. Although he had slight wearneur, dancer and ex-wife of Rolling dress sold for £432 from a £40-£60 to the mohair near the bellows, theStone, Ronnie - and her sister Lize estimate. These cats were known as 13”/33cm bear reached his estimateMcCarron chose to auction their late Soldier Bears as many were taken to of £80 - £100 and sold for £144.mother’s doll and teddy bear collec- war as love tokens from sweetheartstion, The Rachel Karslake Devon Doll during the Great War. Although the Best of the restMuseum Collection. mohair on this example was balding/ shedding in places and there was There were many other bears within There were a number of teddy some moth damage, the 3.5”/9cm still the sale from manufacturers such asbears which gained a lot of interest achieved a remarkable figure. Steiff, Merrythought, Chiltern, Charliefrom buyers. These included: Bears and a large selection of Art- Another handsome chap was a ists Bears. In fact with over 340 lots of A British, 1920’s white mohair 1920’s British golden mohair musical bears to choose from, there was some-‘Soldier Cat’ with green glass eyes teddy bear. With large clear glasswith black pupil, red nose stitching, eyes with black pupil and black30 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

THE SALE ROOMthing for everyone and every pocket. teddy bear with brown and black Colourbox Miniatures, Disney Store, A lovely Teddy Bear Display Set eyes, brown stitched nose and cream Pedigree, Muffy Vanderbear, Robin wool felt pads embroidered with ‘Or- Reeve and various other makers, allof ten Steiff yellow tag mohair teddy vis Est. 1856’ and he wears a green achieving great prices.bears, each representing a differ- cotton fishing gillet. The bear was ac-ent decade (1902, 1912, 1928, 1930, companied by a letter of provenance The next bear sale will not be until1949, 1953, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1999), from the then managing director of October so if you would like to con-and all seated within a wooden shelf Orvis. Estimated at £100 - £150 the sign a collection, please get in touchdisplay with brass plaque, realised bear sold for a fantastic £240. with Kathy Taylor or Jo McDonald at£192. The set would make a great ad- Vectis auctions, who will be happy todition to any collector’s home. Turning heads talk to about the auction process and your collection. A cute set of Steiff Collection A further Steiff bear, a Somersault-‘Fruities’, including Green Pepper, To- ing Teddy Bear (Purzel Bar) c.1909, www.vectis.co.ukmato, Orange, Lemon, Apple, Pump- achieved £528. This was a dark Tel: +44 (0) 1642 750616kin, Plum, Pear, Strawberry and pair blonde mohair teddy bear with blackof Cherries, all complete with chest shoe button eyes, black stitchedtags and swing certificates, sold for nose, wool felt pads and with integralan appetising £432. mechanism enabling the bear to somersault (although this mechanism Another Steiff bear; this time a pre- is inoperative). The bear had a smallproduction sample, ‘Orvis’ Fly Fishing repair to the left paw, repairs to woolTeddy Bear. This bear was produced felt pads and some slight thinningas a concept for the Orvis Com- and flattening of mohair overall butpany, for their Christmas 2013 gift generally he was in good order whichcatalogue. However the decision was ensured the 9”/23cm bear achievedmade by Orvis not to go ahead with its top estimate.the limited edition run and thereforethis is No.2 of only two made. Wearing There were many more bears ina white tag with hand written ‘Orvis this sale; lots of Artists bears fromTeddy Bear 664533 7/3/13 NR2 (one Bear Bits, Memory Lain Bears, Bar-of only 2 sample bears produced, ron Bears, Shelli Makes, Hovvigsthe other being retained in the Steiff and Bisson Bears plus others. Alsoarchive)’, he is a blonde curly mohair‘The decision was made by Orvis not to go ahead with the limited ‘ edition run and therefore this is No.2 of only two made. 31TEDDY BEAR TIMES

BEAR COLLECTIONS Brandreth Bears at Newby Hall One of the world’s largest collections of famous teddy bears has been gifted to Newby Hall Charitable Trust by broadcaster Gyles Brandreth BY JILL MUNDY a n extensive collection of teddy the original star of the Paddington The Merry Bears of Windsor, and the bears assembled over many 1970s animated TV series Encyclopedia Beartannica) to a church years by teddy bear enthu- wedding and even an Olympics scene siasts Gyles Brandreth and Harry Corbett’s 1950s Sooty in keeping with the 2016 games. Muppet Show stalwart Fozzie Bear his wife, Michele Brown, are now on donated by Jim Henson himself The collection also includes a varie- permanent display in a new purpose- the original Children in Need’s ty of rare and unusual bears, including built Bear House in the grounds of Pudsey bear an early Steiff and early English bears- Newby Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire. Literary bears are also well repre- from Merrythought, Dean and Farnell. Previously housed at the former Teddy sented by ‘bear of very little brain’ Entry to the exhibition is included in Bear Museum in Stratford-on-Avon, Winnie the Pooh and the Bear of Avon, the garden entry price - teddies admit- the collection opened to the public on William Shakesbeare himself, de- ted free of charge!elf Saturday 28 May 2016 and has already signed by Gyles Brandreth. Editor Jill Mundy caught up with attracted thousands of visitors in the The bears will be displayed in Gyles and asked him about the col- first few weeks. a series of specially commissioned lection and his decision to house it at Bear lovers of all ages will be able tableaux ranging from a classic picnic Newby Hall. to get ‘up close and pawsonal’ with and a library scene (books include world famous bears including: Macbear, Paw and Peace, Jane Bear, J: How are the bears settling in? G: I am happy to report that the Brandreth Bears at Newby Hall are already proving very popular. We have had several thousand visitors already! The first through the door were the Brown family – which given that Pad- dington went to live with the Browns, feels like a good omen . . . J: It must be very exciting to have a new home for your bear collection but just how nerve wracking has it been to move them all? G: It’s very exciting. I was looking for a permanent home for the bear collection my wife Michele and I have built up over a lifetime. We have three children, seven grandchildren and more than a thousand teddy bears. There’s not enough room for them at home and the children love 32 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

BEAR COLLECTIONSthem but haven’t got a home big bears but it took a team of ten to pack derful collection of twentieth centuryenough for them either. We also want and unpack them all Hermann dressed bears and we willto share them with others. have a hundred or more of them on We are very excited because the display at a time: they are the bears Then last year I was sent by The Comptons have created a charitable who mostly people the different scenesOne Show to do a story about Newby trust to safeguard the bears for all time we have created to show off the bears.Hall. It’s a beautiful stately home, built – and they have built a handsome Bearby Sir Christopher Wren, and during House for them to live in. I say it was J: Is it possible to have any particularthe Second World War it is where the designed by Sir Christobear Wren! favourites in such a large hug?King and Queen and the two little prin-cesses might have gone in the event of J: You have hundreds of bears in G: Bears are like children.Youa German invasion . . . I saw the house your collection - how many will be on shouldn’t have favourites. I certainlyand thought “If its good enough for the display at any one time? try not to but I am very fond of Fozzieroyals, it’s good enough for the bears. Bear, given to me by Jim Henson and G: Some of the most famous bears Rowan Atkinson kindly gave me Mr Richard and Lucinda Compton, who will be on show all the time but we are Bean’s bear. The romantic novelist,live at Newby Hall, already had a dolls expecting to have visiting celebrity Barbara Cartland, gave me her bearhouse collection so it seemed to make bears and we will continue adding to too. She called him The Prince of Love.sense to take the Brandreth Bears there the collection. A true Teddy Bear lovertoo. Michele and I helped pack up the called Pauline Grattan left us her won- 33TEDDY BEAR TIMES

BEAR COLLECTIONS J: You certainly have some great “I like bears that come in all shapes and sizes.”‘celebrity’ bears but is there a bearthat you would really like to add to the G: We bought a few at auction but J: Do you have a teddy bear ‘claimcollection if you could? mostly these are bears that have been to fame’? given to us or left to us – which is why G: Yes. I knew the real Christopher it is so important we look after them G: Over the years I have been luckyRobin and his Winnie the Pooh is now properly and for posterity. For exam- enough to meet all sorts of famousin the New York Public Library. A A ple, Dame Barbara Cartland left us her teddy bear people – from MichaelMilne gave it to his American pub- bear and we have to treat him properly. Bond, the creator of Paddington Bear,lisher, who gave it to the Library. I’d According to Dame Barbara, he thinks to Christopher Robin Milne, the origi-love to arrange for the original Pooh to he is an Indian Prince. nal owner of Winnie-the-Pooh. If youvisit Newby Hall one day. Meanwhile, meet me in the Bear House one day,our Pooh is the one who appeared on J: Have you travelled any great dis- be sure to shake my hand.You canstage in the Winnie the Pooh musical tance to acquire a particular bear? then say you’ve shaken the hand thatwritten by Julian Slade, the creator of shook the hand that held the paw ofSalad Days. If you come to Newby Hall, G: Our bear travels have taken us Winnie-the-Pooh!you will see he has his back to you – to so many wonderful places – fromon the express instructions of Christo- Moscow in search of a Russian Bear to J: What advice would you give any-pher Robin who did not like the look of the New York home of Teddy Roosevelt one wishing to start their own teddyhis smile! bear collection? who gave the bear his J: Are the bears all conventional or name. G: Don’t. It will take over your wholeare there a few surprises? life. (Or perhaps do…It will bring you J: Your own childhood a lot of happiness along the way). G: I like bears that come in all bear, Growler, went miss-shapes and sizes. The most unusual ing - do you hope he may Michelle Brown has written twoI think is a bear made en- turn up one day? books about the collection: ‘Thetirely of moss. We have an Little History of the Teddy Bear’Edwardian Steiff – and a G: He went missing – and ‘The Teddy Bear Hall of Fame’brand new bear specially but he’s not really gonecreated for Newby Hall. missing. He is alive and well in my heart. J: How have you ac-quired the majority ofyour bears - at auction, forexample, or do you have afew favourite bear shops?34 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

WHERE i WORKJan Aldogan has been making Jan’s Tiddy Bears for 14 years now but sewing has been a large part of her life for longer than thatWhat made you decide to bound to be a stray needle about!become a bear maker/artist? Do you like to listen to music or Redundancy from my job gave the radio while you work?me loads of time on my hands, and I always put on the US crime seriesmy friend Netty too, so we teamed NCIS. I’m a huge fan! I know it so wellup, sewed, chatted and drank tea. I don’t have to watch it. I tried musicWe then decided try our hand at but ended up singing along too muchselling our creations…and the rest is and not sewing the bears.history.Tell us a little about where you Is there one thing that yourwork workspace couldn’t be without? My daylight lamp! I can’t work with I usually work at home or there’s my out it.boyfriend’s place. My area isn’t veryspecial as I live in a shoe box! However, What would be your dreamthat does have its benefits as I love hav- workspace?ing everything to hand. I have a workbox, a bin, a lap tray and a very good The studio that Mr Hastings has beenlamp. promising I can have at the end of his garden. Fantastic views of Hastings, all I only have to get up for materi- my Teddy stuff in one place and loadsals and to make a cuppa…unless of space to spread. All mine, to do withMr Hastings (the boyfriend) is there it what I like and I want it to look like a large beachand he does it. I’m not blessed to have a separate hut with decking. With Mr Hastings bringing mespace to work in so it’s feet up in front of the TV I’m food and tea when needed…or the odd glass ofafraid. vodka. Ooh heaven! Jan’s Tiddy Bears will be on stand 12B at Hug-Describe your workspace in five words glets Winter Bearfest 2016. When she’s not making Tiny, cluttered, untidy, compact and dangerous bears, Jan loves to sing with a(needles in the settee cushion, choir.sorry bad habit)Are other people welcome What’s your proudestin your work space? achievement to date? It’s difficult to keep them out Winning a silver medal at anas it’s not a private work place international barbershop singingso anyone can sit there - just try competition with Vocal Dimen-not to sit on the needles. If you sit sion Chorus in Baltimore USA.in my place when the work box We’ve managed to get to Vegasis out you’ll be sorry…there’s this year so we may just top that!Anyone can sit there… just try not to sit on the needles

MEET THE ARTIST Happy to be a little different Far from conventional, Masha Rezvova creates her unique, playful and quirky bears from her home in the Moscow region of Russia ike many other women, needle- BY CARRIE BROOKS for decoration. “I like bright colours. Clothes and acces-L work runs through the genera- When Masha had finished sories are not very important tions of Masha Rezvova’s family her course,Yelena gave her for me. I rarely make them and this heritage has helped to some words of wisdom. “She and only if the conceived im-shape her creativity. “My grandmother said: ‘Try to make teddy bears age requires it. I would ratherused to make clothes for the whole no one has ever made’. I felt focus on the face of a teddyfamily and machine-embroider nap- almost immediately that tradi- bear and its expression.”kins, tablecloths and cushion covers. tional teddy bears are not myAnd so I started sewing – first, cloth- direction. Neither are minia- The initial stage of creatinging for dolls and other toys and then ture teddy bears. My bears a bear is what she finds mostmy own clothes. Later it became my can probably be called fan- interesting. “I make a draw-profession. I worked as a tailor, then tastic and modern. I’m trying ing, pattern and prototype.a technologist of women’s clothing. to follow my own way without Then the usual work follows: cutting,Now I am the head of the experimen- limitations, playing with colours and sewing and putting together. I decidetal workshop in the design-studio of shapes. All my teddy bears are very on the filling according to the imagewomen’s clothes.” different but many people say they are I create. I have kept only one of my quite peculiar - resembling me!” teddy bears called ‘White and Fluffy’. So how and when did the bear I think he is unique as he turns insidemaking start? In December 2003, a Some of the things that have in- out and there is another teddy beardoll maker friend encouraged Masha spired Masha are clear from the names inside.”to visit Vakhtanov Puppet Gallery, in she gives her bears. “For example, Combining work with her hobbyMoscow. “I liked the teddy bears very Spartak (soccer ball), Rubik’s Cube, is difficult for Masha but she remainsmuch and learnt that they were made Terminator and Small Fir Cone. undeterred. “I’m on maternity leaveof a special material - mohair. Then I now. I have a daughter and my planswanted to try to make a teddy bear. I “Of course there are ideas that will concern her primarily. But I think I willbought several magazines and made never come to life - sketches that will be able to go on making teddy bearsmy first two teddy bears from artificial remain on paper, bad patterns - but it as there are still many ideas and imag-fur and sheepskin. Creating a ‘living’ is the search that forms the process of es that I haven’t realised yet. I haven’tbeing impressed me and I decided creativity.” done enough playing, so to speak…”that I had to learn the basic skills.” Masha likes to use mohair with Masha completed a teddy bear varying lengths of pile and sometimescourse with Yelena Yurova in 2004 and plush with suede, felt and heavy silkvisited the workshops of various otherbear artists. “I also gathered informa-tion from the internet and magazines -anywhere experts shared their ex-perience. And I visited the VakhtanovGallery to look at Russian and foreignteddy bears.”36 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

MEET THE ARTIST “Try to make teddy bears no one has ever made.” 37TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW REPORT Schaumburg Teddy Show is a hit with collectors Collectors ventured out to the Schaumburg Teddy Bear Show, to see fabulous teddy bears, add to their collections, and meet talented artists from across the nation BY VALERIE ROGERS eddy bear collectors were drawn Bears) a Certificate of Achievement. Her Steampunk bunny was chosen t to the 9th Annual Schaumburg to appear on the colourful collectors Teddy Bear Gallery Show on Sun- invitation postcard. day April 17, 2016, not only to see the fabulous teddy bears but to meet Children love knowing more about the talented, award winning artists. teddy bears and Mary Ortwine (Mare’s Bears & More) graciously took the time The Wyndham Gardens Schaum- to explain how her bears are made burg hotel ballroom was filled with a from vintage fur coats. variety of bears and stuffed animals. Cute bears some so tiny that you could Waldorf, the large bear, was cele- not believe your eyes while others were brating his birthday. He loves balloons perfect for hugging. The artists used a and hugs! wide variety of furs and materials. One of the recent donations to Good Before the show opened, promoter Bears of the World, was a ‘big big, Valerie Rogers (Bright Star Promo- bear’ and he found his way to a new tions) gifted Pam Pontious (Pamda den. From top left: Mary Ortwine; Collector with Collectors added many new bears bags of bears; Good Bears of the World with to their collections and after the show closed, the artists hurried back to their big bear. studios to create more bears for the Below: Valerie and Pam Pontious. coming shows. Below right: Waldorf. A stellar time was had by all. THE BEAR FACTS: Valerie Rogers - Bright Star Promotions, Inc. 3428 Hillvale Road, Louisville, KY 40241 web: www.bright-star-promotions.com call: (502) 423-STAR38 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

CR’s Crafts Teddy Bear, doll & Craft Supplies crscraft.com 877-277-2782 P.o. Box 8-ti168 leland, ia 504539.5” Dennis the Menace Bear Pattern CR’s CRafts Catalog (#31689) $4.00 U.s., $5.00 CanaDa $7.00 otheR CoUntRies (U.s. fUnDs only) or get it fRee by placing an order! 39TEDDY BEAR TIMES

MEET THE ARTIST Ursula refines the art of creating lovable characters Picking up an ARTig & frech bear there’s a certain expression in the eyes that pleads with you to give them a hug…and then you’re smitten BY HOLLY SIMMONDS THE BEAR FACTS: he German city of Es- special from material, which she put into practice in her ARTig+frech Bears t sen has become known own dressmaker’s shop.” email: [email protected] as the Green Capital of web: http://artigundfrech.jimdo.com Europe thanks to its many It was in 1996 that Ursula parks and open green spac- visited her first teddy bear40 TEDDY BEAR TIMES es. They provide bear artist exhibition. “I caught the Ursula Schwartz with plenty of virus then and designing inspiration for her bears that and creating bears myself she sells under her trade name ARTig has occupied a large part of my time & frech. ever since. As I have grown up with my grandmother’s patterns and I love The name translates literally working with colours too, it wasn’t to ‘good and cheeky’ and she enjoys difficult for me to create my own style the freedom this gives her. “I like very quickly.” having the option to create bears that Whether it is the vintage style bears are a more traditional, vintage style or the funny ones, Ursula will always but also some fun, playful bears that use the best materials. “I like to work are like sweet little children. Very often with different types of mohair for my I get an idea for a special bear or funny bears and animals and I use animal during my daily walk through vintage plush for the traditional ones. a nearby green area with lots of farm My favourite size of bear to create is animals.” between 8 and 30cm.” Most of the bears and animals are Ursula shares her home with her clothed and Ursula likes to keep true two daughters, Neele and Marike. to the style, sourcing antique fabrics “They have accompanied me now for for the vintage style bears. Many of 19 years of bear making, especially both styles wear other accessories to fairs we have visited in other coun- too such as necklaces, caps and hair tries. We always combine the journeys ribbons. “I dress each of my bears to with interesting sightseeing or cultural give them their own characters. And I events which also helps with new bear love to spend time creating their facial designs.” expressions - sometimes curious, sometimes loving and dreamy. Their Ursula is a qualified pharmacist but expressions are important to me.” admits to having always been creative. Although each bear is created as “I have loved making things with my if Ursula would want to keep them for hands for my whole life. Where other herself, she gets a great deal of pleas- little girls would paint houses and ure from giving them to her various clouds on paper, I stitched them onto fabric. I inherited my grandmother’s love of colour and creating something

MEET THE ARTIST 41TEDDY BEAR TIMES

URSULA’S SHOWCASEcustomers. Her most favourite at the Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Eng-moment are her new classical bears. “I land, USA and Japan. I have been luckyhave called them the ‘Big Alfreds’ and to win first prize in lots of internationalI have changed the classical design competitions too.”a little into a cosy one with a little fattummy!” Artig & frech Bears are regular visi- tors to London. “I have been visiting The bear families are joined by the Hugglets Bear Festivals for aboutfunny rabbits, mice and elephants, all the last 14 years. As my favourite auntof whom find new homes with owners married an Englishman, I have a spe-around the world. The relationship that cial fondness for England.”builds between Ursula and her loyalcustomers is something she cherishes. Do say hello to Ursula if you are at“I have spent many years having a lot Kensington Town Hall in September forof fun visiting the best exhibitions in Hugglets or you can contact her using the details in the Bear Facts box.42 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW REPORT 43TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW REPORTCollectable creations at theQuinlan Teddy Bear ShowThe Artist Doll & Teddy Bear Convention put onby Susan and Terence Quinlan was the placeto be, for both artists and collectors BY BRITA MOORE alking into the room on the in times of trouble. GBW Chairperson they saw, while they shared drinks and Terrie Strong was around for the entire good conversation with one another.W first night of the Artist Doll & weekend, sharing the organisation’s This reverence for artistry was the high Teddy Bear Convention, the noble mission. point of the weekend, with the Signa- excitement among the attend- ture Creations almost completely soldees was palpable. Artists and collec- As attendees arrived, those new to out by the end of the first night.tors bustled about, looking on with awe the convention visited the Boot Campat the stunning teddy bears and dolls session with Terry and Susan Quinlan. Saturday kicked off with a market-on display. As a few put it: “It was like They explained the different aspects of place for artists and collectors to buythe good old days.” the show, emphasising how full a week- whatever they needed, while many end it really is. From breakfast until expressed their enthusiasm about The Convention is run by Susan and late at night, it’s a bustle of classes and Teddy Bear Times. Then it was ontoTerence Quinlan of the Susan Quinlan sales, with breaks to eat at the buffets. another gallery, this one divided intoDoll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library, They also introduced the ‘Blue Crew’, a unique themes: heroes/role models,and this year was the sixth rendition. group who wore blue shirts and were bride/groom, Star Wars characters,It was held at the Clarion Hotel in Es- assisting in making sure the weekend military figures, comic book charac-sington, Pennsylvania, near Philadel- went smoothly. ters and hand painted bears and dolls.phia, from 29 April - 1 May. As always, We found a Rainbow bear by Michellethe spotlight was on the teddy bear Once the workshops and Boot Lamb and Charlie Brown by Sandyand doll artists, of whom there were Camp had come to their close, artists Czaja, to name a couple. All were for128, from all over the United States and set up their finest creations for the Sig- sale, in front of these dedicated col-around the world. No large vendors nature Piece Doll & Teddy Bear Sale. lectors’ eyes. Terry Quinlan suggestedwere permitted to sell there. Just one Attendees were so awed by the work at the opening of the show that theselook at the galleries and sales tables kinds of galleries may help foster inter-told you the calibre and authenticity of est in younger collectors.the artists. Meals were all-inclusive andeach one featured a delicious buffet. Then it was time for more inspiring workshops, with bear-aerobics breaks The show provided a magnificent in between. In Joanne Livingston’sexperience for artists and collectors ‘Making It Real’ seminar, the artist ofalike. Desertmountainbear discussed her motivation for making realistic bears. The Quinlans kicked off the show She creates directly from what shewith an array of workshops on teddy sees in nature and showed examplesbear and doll artistry, with the finished of bears she’s modelled hers after,pieces on display in the late after- which got lots of oohs and ahhs. Shenoon. Students worked on noses, eyes encouraged artists to play with theirand felt work. The opening afternoon bears, to help inspire collectors to playalso featured a special presentation too.from Good Bears of the World to theTinicum County Police Department, Another key presentation wasdonating 50 bears to comfort children44 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW REPORT‘Teddy Bear Collectors: A Vanishing collectors enthusiastic to meet all of the promote the talents of teddy bear art-Breed?’ from an avid collector from bears up close. Impressive displays ists like this and send collectors awayCalifornia, Mark Allen. He expressed filled the ballrooms, from steampunk to with full hugs, there’s a bright futureconcern about a dwindling number of mice sleeping in clocks. We smiled at ahead for our hobby.teddy bear collectors and suggested Sue VanNattan’s lovely nature displayseveral factors are turning off potential of her Bearlooms bears. Collectors got Plans are currently underway forcollectors. But he also included ideas the incomparable experience of enjoy- next year’s convention. For more de-for improving the outlook. ing hundreds of artist bears face-to- tails, see www.quinlanmuseum.com/ face, and many walked away with bags convention.html The main idea to help grow the full of them. Plus, teddy bear artistshobby? Promote artist bears as con- JoAnne O’Hanlon, Joanne Livingston, THE BEAR FACTS:temporary art. The attendees of the Michelle Lamb, Katherine Hallam,presentation took on a lively discussion Diana Watts and Svetlana Khabarova Good Bears of the Worldof what this would mean. We left feel- walked away with the convention PO Box 13097ing hopeful and even more inspired by awards. Toledo, Ohio 43613 USAthe creativity of teddy bear artists. web: www.goodbearsoftheworld.org As long as shows like the Quinlans’ Sunday’s sale day brought out many 45TEDDY BEAR TIMES

OLD BEARSMake room forvintage pandasWhen choosing a vintage bear, show some love forthe black & white, says Andy Greetham of Bourton Bears BY ANDY GREETHAM OF BOURTON BEARSW hen you actually see real Pandas, unlike many other bears, eat from the start as Chi-Chi appeared to pandas you can’t help but love bamboo shoots and the fact they were have no interest. It was enough to stir them. Perhaps it’s because and still are an endangered species the hearts of parents and children eve- they look as if they have two seemed to add to the magic of this rywhere and this launched the pandablack patched eyes or the fact their vulnerable creature. It was not long again in the UK as a popular toy of thecoats are so dense that they look cud- before many manufacturers were pro- 1950s.dly. ducing pandas for the European and worldwide market. By this time most teddy bear manu- Either way, during the late 1930s facturers had a panda in their rangewhen pandas were introduced to West- Steiff made a panda in a lovely black and some of these will still be withern zoos, everyone felt the same and it and white mohair in the late 1930s their original owners today as treas-was not long before someone realised that was quite different, with an open ured childhood bears.there was potential for a new line of mouth and large carded feet so hebears on the horizon. could stand on his own. The Chiltern Hugmee Panda from the 1950s is the one we get most Merrythought, Farnell and Chad Val- requests for and this is probably be- ley also made pandas in this period, cause of his very appealing face. in mohair and silk plush, and some of these bears were unjointed and stood Pandas continue to be produced on all fours to resemble real pandas. today by many manufacturers and bear artists and they come in a variety Dean’s had a good marketing idea of exotic colours. in 1939 when they put a few pandas from their range in a cage in London We find that serious bear and panda Zoo with a real baby panda who was collectors look for those early exam- photographed licking or kissing the ples that were produced only for a short time before World War II, espe- Dean’s Handy Pandy panda. cially those with a maker’s label. The Other manufacturers also 1950s Steiff open-mouthed pandas are also much sought after. produced pandas but then World War II began and the soft toy in- If you don’t have a panda in your dustry almost ceased for the next hug then now is the time to add one as five years. It was no surprise there- they deserve their important status as fore when the soft toy industry part of the history of the teddy bear restarted after hostilities ceased and no collection is complete without and materials became more one - or two, or three or perhaps just plentiful, that the panda should one more! be given a new lease of life. You can find out more about collect- This coincided with the two able pandas and other vintage teddies pandas in London Zoo, Chi-Chi by visiting the Bourton Bears website: and An-An, being put together to www.bourtonbears.com or call 01452 try and breed a baby panda in cap- 700608. tivity. This attempt seemed doomed46 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

OLD BEARS 47TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW REPORTFun and furries forall at SpringfestWhatever type of bear or furry creature you fancied, therewere plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets atthe Sheffield fair this Spring f there is one thing that can be BY JULIE SHEPHERD found the perfect choice on the Bears by Karen stand. I spotted a cute littlei absolutely guaranteed about any bygone era. prickly pair named Pippen and Rose event organised by Katherine Hal- I stopped by the Joxy Bears stand who would have been quite at home in lam of Katie Rae Bears, it is that she any hug.will have put every last ounce of her which was, as always, full of endearingboundless energy and enthusiasm into little faces looking at me. Although it Bry Richardson of Thingumy & Co isensuring that everyone attending, ei- was very hard to choose a favourite, I very well known for her wonderful littlether as a visitor or exhibitor, will have chose the wonderful little Bipsy B who characters and it’s always a delight toa fabulous day. certainly giving me a ‘take me home’ be able to see her work ‘in the fur’. look. She had obviously been very busy And sure enough, The Great York- and had produced a fabulous choiceshire Teddy Bear Event Springfest And I’m not sure who could possibly for her collectors. But as Bry is alwayswhich took place on 22nd May was resist Ada, who I spotted nestled on surrounded by a crowd as soon as theno exception. How she manages to the stand of Maria & The Bears. Armed doors open, I had to be quick to snatchcreate such a wonderful atmosphere with her mop and bucket, she looked a photo before it was too late!with such attention to detail and still ready for action! She was absolutelyfind time to create a fantastic selection stunning in every way ...and as for Next I spotted an adorable pairof her stunning character pieces I just those amazing eyelashes, what more on the Collector Button Bears stand.don’t know. But she does it every time! can I say? I peeped at their names - Wolfie and Little Red. Thankfully, unlike the fairy There was a very eager queue in On another stand I spied a truly story, this particular Wolfie lookedplace well before the 10.30 opening life-like little Westie who was peering more likely to protect Little Red thantime. The lucky winners of the VIP ex- down at me from the top shelf and I gobble her up!perience (if you buy your tickets online would have loved to take him home. Iyou are entered into the prize draw) just had to take a closer look and found Natalie Sweeney of Sweenikle Bearshad time for a private browse around he was named Neelo and had been always creates some very wonderfulthe event before the doors opened and created by the extremely talented pieces for her collectors, each with aeveryone made a bee-line for their Silvia Gilles of Gilles Baren Bears. He soulful and very appealing face. Shefavourite exhibitor. certainly pulled at my heart-strings. had a beautiful collection of her very recognisable bears with her and I As I have been caught out in the A visit to The Creative Tedd is al- couldn’t resist snapping a fabulouspast, I visited Katherine’s stand first ways guaranteed to bring on an attack bruin who was resplendent in his topand snapped a couple of truly amaz- of the ‘oohhs and aahhs’ and it was hat!ing creations - but I think my favourite certainly true as I just couldn’t choosehad to be the Mad Hatter who was just a favourite. All of Clare Davis-Tedd’s The Charlie Bears team had a dis-about managing to get the tea into the creations have such an appealing play and were telling everyone aboutcup! expression it’s always very hard to the new Charlie Bears ‘Best Friends’ decide where to point the camera, but Club. The ladies were kept very busy Kaz Bears was nearby and Karen I finally settled on Adele, a little bear in by a steady stream of visitors to theirBrentnall had worked hard to produce delicate shades of soft pink. Gorgeous! stand, all eager to learn more abouta beautiful array of her lovely bears this exciting new venture.which are so reminiscent of a gentle If you were looking for something a little different to keep your bears company, then I think you would have48 TEDDY BEAR TIMES

SHOW REPORT Maria & The Bears.Katie Rae Bears. Thingumy & Co.Collector Button Bears. 49TEDDY BEAR TIMES Kaz Bears.Joxy Bears.

SHOW REPORTSylvia Gilles. Bears By Karen. And those aiming to create a bear tomers, each hoping to win a prize but of their own were very well catered for too. Susan Davies of Bear Basics happy to be supporting The Sheffield had an amazing choice of beautiful Schulte fabric to tempt everyone and Childrens Hospital. before you ask, no I didn’t buy any- thing because I know I really shouldn’t. In no time at all it was 2.30 and time (But between you and me, I did see a piece of alpaca that I thought about all to draw the raffle - there were some the way home and just had to order the next day!) very happy winners with huge smiles Barbara Ann was in her usual spot on their faces. Then the door prize was with her instantly recognisable bears and her fabulously colourful fabrics. drawn, the winner receiving an ador- And Rita Harwood of Woodland Ted- dies was also in attendence - Rita able Charlie Bear. always has a huge selection of hard to find colours of ultrasuede with her There was just time for a few last - perfect if you are looking for some- Sweenickle Bears. thing a little bit different. Rita is also an minute purchases before the event The Creative Tedd. expert in the art of using fabric dyes to create a unique finish and both she closed at 3 o’clock and visitors and ex- and Barbara Ann were very generous in sharing their extensive knowledge hibitors began to make their way home. with me as I’ve finally decided to bite the bullet and have a go at using dye! But we’re all looking forward to the As with all of Katherine’s shows, the next event, The Great Yorkshire Teddy appeal for prizes for the now famous raffle is always answered loud and Bear Event Christmas Convention clear with generous artists donating beautiful bears every time. Katherine’s will take place over the weekend of mum was in her usual spot being kept very busy by a constant stream of cus- 19th/20th November. The event kicks off with a fabulous workshop on Sat- urday when lucky participants will be able to create a fabulous donkey un- der the expert eye of Sharna Rothwell of Foxglove Bears . On Saturday evening the fun will continue with the glittering Gala Din- ner which incorporates the awards ceremony for the prestigous Excel- lence In Bear Artistry Awards. And then there is still the wonderful teddy bear show to look forward to on Sunday. So make a note in your diary as you really don’t want to miss all the fun. Look forward to seeing you there!50 TEDDY BEAR TIMES