Key worker hand knitted dolls created during COVID pandemic
Date made: 2020
Description: Set of seven hand knitted 'key worker' dolls as made by Lynne Foulis during the first COVID pandemic lockdown in the Isle of Man (March-May 2020). They were displayed in her window in Ballaugh and they became a focal point for children in the village to see as new 'key workers' were added. They were collected as part of Manx National Heritage's Collecting COVID Isle of Man Campaign, launched in May 2020.
The group comprises:
1. Police Officer
2. Postperson
3. Nurse
4. Firefighter (with lollystick ladder)
5. Surgeon or doctor
6. Cleaner
7. Refuse Collector
Lynne made the dolls whilst in isolation to keep herself busy and entertained during the pandemic, and to thank the workers who came round to her housing estate as well as to give recognition to frontline roles that many of her members play. Each doll took her a couple of days to make and when asked what the reaction was from passers-by, she said, "They absolutely love them! It brings a smile to their faces as they are out for their daily walks."
Measurements: various
Materials: wool
Object name: knitted dolls
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 2022-0029
Subject tags : #MM100COLLECTIONS