About Me

Hi, I’m Marla Niederer of OrsinisAngels.  I have been a self-taught artist since my earliest childhood memories.

I had a day job in areas other than the arts most of my life.   For a good part of my adult life I fought my desire to chase everything shiny down the artistic rabbit hole so I could focus on, learn, and develop techniques in figurative fiber art (art dolls) until I was able to create what visions danced in my heart and head.

Keeper of the Earth by Marla Niederer

I use a variety of advanced needle sculpting techniques on my art dolls.  Some were taught to me by other doll artists such as Peggy Wilson and Barbara Schoenoff.    I also developed many of the techniques I use today through many hours of experimentation.

Goddess by Marla Niederer

My art dolls are hand painted with watercolors and are often embellished with beads.

I love to share the techniques I use with other artists and have been teaching online and in person classes for many years.

Sleeping Mermaids by Marla L. Niederer

I am fortunate to live in northern New York with the love of my life where we are surrounded by the exquisite beauty of nature. The constant view of nature’s beauty strongly influences my work.

Outside my window by Marla Niederer

I am also inspired by dreams, people, literature, colors, antiques, other art, and other artists.

Waterfountain on the Square in Watertown by Marla L. Niederer

Now that I have left my day job behind me, I get to create art every day.  So gradually I have been embracing my propensity to chase all things shiny down the artistic rabbit hole.  While I still create my figurative fiber art and plan to continue to do so, I am finding myself traveling along other artistic paths such as urban sketching, watercolor painting, jewelry making, and whatever other artistic adventures that capture my attention.

Beadwoven earrings by Marla L. Niederer created from Bead and Button Magazine pattern

I invite you to join me on these artistic adventures by following me on my blog, participating in my free tutorials, taking my classes, and sharing a few artistic adventures of your own with me here and on Facebook.