The Heart Behind the Dolls
My name is Leslie, the artist behind LadyLsLe's Artspace.
I don't just make dolls, I create from a place of love, loss and healing.
I dedicate my African Newspaper Dolls to my daughter Kiara, who I lost, and my granddaughter Aleah, who passed away after a courageous battle with Neuroblastoma.
My daughter was trying to cope with the pain of a 4 year old battling cancer, and in that pain, I lost her too.
Creating these dolls my way of surviving....my way of honoring them...and my way of continuing their story.
Each doll is made from recycled newspaper — handcrafted with intention.
The faces are intentionally left blank.
Because they are not just my story.
They are yours,
They are our mothers, our daughters, our grandmothers...our ancestors.
They are love. They are memory. They are legacy.
More than Art
Every doll I create starts with discarded newspapers, through a process of patience and love into something that honors familyof African culture.
The Craft
The craft behind each African Newspaper Doll starts with something most people throw away: yesterday’s news. I carefully roll, shape and seal layers of recycled newspaper, then hand‑paint every detail by hand. No two dolls are ever the same. Each one carries a story of love, legacy and second chances—turning what was once discarded into something to be cherished.
Kind Words
“So talented! I love your beautiful dolls, and they are an amazing Mother's Day gift!”
— Erin, Wareham
“My Jamaican Newspaper Doll sits on my bookshelf and everyone asks about her. It’s more than decor—it’s a daily reminder of my roots.”
— Shelly, Hyannis
“Leslie, I am so honored to have a few of your dolls that you made for me. I will be contacting you for more purchases. Thank you for sharing your talent.”
— , Cindi, New York
I love mine!! My Angel watches over my work day.
- Dee, Hannis
Values & Mission
At LadyLsLe’s Artspace, every African Newspaper Doll is a tribute to love, legacy, and our everyday stories. I work with recycled newspaper to honor what others throw away and turn it into something worth keeping.
My values are simple:
Honor our roots – Celebrate Black womanhood, family, and the stories that shaped us.
Create with care – Each doll is made slowly, by hand, with intention in every brushstroke.
Waste nothing – Using recycled newspaper is my way of loving the earth while I create.
My mission is to fill homes with art that feels like home—pieces that spark memories, start conversations, and remind you that your story matters.