A doll resembling the iconic character Anne of Green Gables has garnered attention on social media platforms, where it has been humorously dubbed “Anne of Scream Gables.” The doll, with striking eyes and red braids, was discovered in a thrift store in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Despite the mockery it received online, a local man revealed that the doll is a unique artwork created by his late mother, an artist from Ottawa.
Andrew Danylewich, who runs ADJA Studio and Gallery in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, shared that the doll was crafted by his mother, Heather Danylewich, known for her fabric-based artistry. Heather specialized in creating large fabric sculptures and murals, with one notable piece being a giant wampum bird displayed at the Royal Canadian Mint. Andrew expressed his surprise and nostalgia upon seeing the doll, recognizing it as a piece his mother made approximately 40 years ago.
He indicated that the doll might have been crafted in honor of the 75th anniversary of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s renowned novel, “Anne of Green Gables.” Andrew mentioned the scarcity of surviving pieces crafted by his mother, with some soft sculptures of prime ministers archived at Library and Archives Canada being among the few known works.
Although the doll is no longer available at the thrift store, Andrew hopes to track it down and showcase it at his gallery. Despite the teasing the doll received online, he acknowledged the humor in its exaggerated features and shared his sentimental connection to his mother’s art, recognizing her signature smile in the doll’s expression. Ultimately, Andrew expressed his wish for the doll to be cherished by whoever possesses it, emphasizing the sentimental value it holds for him and his family.
