By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
WHEN Bryan Humphrey’s mum Leah lost her battle with pancreatic cancer she left an amazing legacy of a houseful of hand-painted China dolls collected over more than 20 years.
Bryan and his brothers and sisters wondered what to do with them all – until they read an Independent Join the Club story on Quota International Geelong and its annual doll show.
The women’s service club hosts the show as a fund-raiser for various community groups including Samaritan House, Glastonbury, Cottage by the Sea and Andrew Love Centre.
Ms Humphrey left more than 100 hand-painted dolls with hand-sewn costumes as well as prams, stands, wigs and accessories.
“We were keen to see the dolls go to a good home,” Mr Humphrey explained.
“The collection represented mum’s exploration of her artistic talents following a lifetime of looking after the family.
“She became so adept she taught China and doll painting through adult education. There are a lot of parallels between what she did in her life and the work of Quota,” he said.
“We’re delighted mum’s legacy can continue to make a contribution for years to come through Quota. We’re also donating dolls to other service clubs and fund-raisers.”
The collection of about 80 dolls will feature in Quota’s 22nd Doll, Teddy and Craft show at Geelong West town Hall on Saturday.
