Aug 4, 1997 / FW/ --- Creating a mannequin is like making a sculpture. The artist needs a model. Usually, the body and the face are taken from two different people.

But there are times when a whole mannequin is based on one person. The mannequin sculptor finds his or her model from all walks of life which is contrary to popular belief that actors/actresses and models are the only ones which are mannequin models.

When a sculptor looks for a model, there are certain quality that he or she look for. These qualities depend on the "commission" and usually discussed between the sculptor and the mannequin manufacturer. Hence, although it a "work" of art, it is also a business transaction.

The reason why models, actors/actresses and dancers are usually chosen to be models is because these individuals are used to holding their "poses" for a long length of time. Their body are usually toned due to regular exercise.

But, you do not have to be in either of the three professions mentioned above to be a mannequin model. Mannequin sculptors are usually on the look out for new models. They just do not announce it to the general public.

Towards the left are some of those who modeled for Decter Mannequins, their youthful grace and beauty translated into fiberglass and paint.

There is an ongoing debate whether mannequins are works of art or just commercial manufacturing. Whatever your opinion on this matter, the long hours of work by various artist and the model could not be denied. The models poses for the artist, the original done in clay which will be the template for the factory. Then, the head and face is done last, sometimes by the same sculptor, sometimes by a different one.

When the mannequin is sent to the factory line and the first one comes out, a make-up artist applies the make-up. Wigs are made separately, and usually also supplied by the same manufacturer, and the choice of hair color depends on the end user, i.e. the store or shop where the mannequin will finally be shipped.