In partnership with Manitoba Crafts Museum and Library (MCML), and working alongside seven Indigenous makers, Manitoba Indigenous Cultural Education Centre (MICEC) warmly welcomes you to an exhibit of new garments created specifically for the Molly doll. This celebration of contemporary Indigenous creativity is set in conversation with historic dolls from MCML’s and MICEC’s collections.

INTRODUCING MOLLY

The seven dolls displayed along the eastern wall of the gallery are called Molly dolls. They were produced as a limited run of 500 dolls by the company My Friend Huggles in partnership with an Indigenous Elder’s and youth sewing circle located in Treaty 8 territory (Alberta). Their original outfit reflected a design created by that sewing circle.

During a renewed interest in dolls at MICEC during the summer and fall of 2024, they realized two things: 1) they had eight Molly dolls, and 2) this was an opportunity to further our goal of promoting awareness and understanding of Indigenous cultures for all Manitobans. MICEC reached out to seven makers, one from each of the different Indigenous Nations in Manitoba and asked if they would reimagine how Molly would be dressed in their cultures. MICEC is proud to share the work of these makers and hopes that these dolls will inspire others to find ways to share their own skills and styles that connect them to their culture(s).

The seven Molly Dolls are exhibited alongside historic and contemporary dolls from both the MCML and the MICEC collections.

Opening Reception

Friday, March 6, 2026 | 6pm – 9pm