The Curious Collector

Objects need more than ownership, they beg for presentation. The display of collections, while often overlooked, form an understanding and a deep context. in this episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook shares his experiences with doll collectors across the world and reveals the techniques they use to help visualize the display as a vehicle of narrative. He discusses how a good display, regardless of style, can elevate your vision. We are all story tellers. A good display is, in essence, the best way of doing just that. It gives you a chance to tell your story and the story of the object in ways everyone can relate to. Here are the links for the videos Stuart talked about in this episode/Click here and here for the videos featuring the amazing vignettes of Susan Nunez.Click here for Dolly Treasures.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In this episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook takes us on a journey of discovery into how artificial intelligence intersects with collecting. With that, posing questions throughout, is it friend or foe? Does it actually help collectors or instead guide them down dangerous paths? After months of research into this powerful tool, his insight can help collectors see clearly where the benefits are and where the dangers hide. Stuart gives both the Pros and the Cons, along with actual samples of each. In addition, he offers some golden rules to help collectors utilize AI in a best practice manner. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

As a counter to Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook's previous episode on community and collecting, in this episode, he talks about an alternative approach, collecting done quietly and in the shadows. The forming of a “secret garden” if you will. These quiet collectors make up a significant proportion of enthusiasts out there but are often misunderstood. Stuart discusses why some choose this path over a more social and community approach and a few of the advantages of a private approach. He also shares stories of some of these collections and the mystique they bring to the market. You can see the movie about Herb and Dorothy Vogel and their incredible collection here.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Community is the heart of collecting. While the objects bring us joy, the friendships and bonds we gain within a hobby are the lasting benefits of a shared passion. In this episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook offers his thoughts on how building community relates to becoming a better collector. He explores the amazing benefits to not only happiness within collecting but life in general as well. Communities are built in so many ways, and Stuart lays out where to find them in the world today. From local doll clubs to online groups, they all have their place in the conversation of collecting and community. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Collectors preserve not just the items themselves but are also the protectors of their histories. Provenance is the path of an item and tells a vital story beyond the aesthetic. Yet, for collectors, while much of that history may be with them, sadly it often goes undocumented and is lost. In this episode of The Curious Collector,  Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook discusses the myriad of benefits that come from documenting and cataloging your collection over time, as well as the importance of this task for future generations of collectors. He helps collectors see that the process can be fun, engaging, and provide powerful insight into the items they procure over time. This episode offers compelling reasons as to why this is one of the most important things you can do over your life of collecting and  provides tips on how to develop a library of your collection - as well as which items and information are essential to include.Here are links to the websites that offer cataloging services for collectors:  ICollectEverything.com, ArtGalleria.com, ArtWorkArchive.com and Collectors.Place.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

R. John and Susan Wright have for fifty years captured the imagination of doll collectors across the globe. From a humble start in the Wright home in Vermont, they would grow to become one of the most revered doll companies in modern times. During this period, they held true to their roots of painstaking design with each doll handmade locally. The fandom of R. John Wright Dolls grew to include exhibits in Japan, special clubs, and even an annual International Convention. On this 50th anniversary of the firm, Susan Wright shares with Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook, her memories, personal stories, and provides a candid look into the genius of R. John and his designs. As well, she discusses her own personal story in their partnership. R. John passed away in 2025 but Susan beautifully talks of his legacy in doll making being one that will continue for generations to come. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Is there science behind the collector’s mind? There actually is. Dr. Shirley Mueller joins Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook for a conversation about her life. both as collector and neurologist, in uncovering just that. Dr. Mueller shares her own experiences and how they directly correlate with the mechanics of the brain that has been more recently studied through MRI’s and practical analysis. It’s a message of positivity and a wonderful opportunity for collectors to understand themselves better - but more importantly, to understand the science that can guide you to even more fulfillment in your pursuit. Lastly, it’s a wonderful opportunity for the non-collectors, The Others, to better respect the passion of collectors. Her book, Inside the Head of A Collector: Neuropsychological Forces at Play, is a must-read and easily the most important work ever published on the subject.You can purchase a copy of Dr. Mueller's book and learn more about her career and research here: https://www.collectorbrain.com/Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Stuart Holbrook has spent decades as President of Theriault’s working with collectors around the world. In that time,  he has learned valuable lessons from them in their collecting evolution. One of the most valuable is their willingness to share how they worked with just a modest income yet still managed over time to build world-class collections. With that, Stuart came to see that wealth is not always the pathway to a great collection. It can be built in other ways as well. In this episode, he shares his lessons from these collectors which, in the end, leads to not just a great collection but a greater experience in collecting. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Over the past year, Theriault’s President Stuart Holbrook traveled across America and Canada on a whirlwind lecture tour to over 60 doll clubs, both big and small. In this episode of The Curious Collector, he shares his experiences with many of the wonderful collectors he met, the funny stories behind many of these appearances and the positiveness of people with shared passions coming together as a community. It became a discovery not only of the collector's heart, but a story of America as well. With that, Stuart takes us from February all the way to December to relate all he learned in this time -  a journey that was meant to validate collectors - but ended up as much becoming a hopeful experience for him. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In this episode, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook talks with Stephanie Blythe, who has been an integral part of the doll artist community for a generation. Her work, spanning over four decades, is testament to a time in which her experience offers us a glimpse into the early transformation of the doll being thought of as an art form. With this, she offers insight into an organization she holds dear, NIADA. Stephanie breaks down the past and the current mission of how NIADA preserves the legacy of artists before and encourages the artists of the future. Of course, no discussion of the growth of doll art in the latter 20th century is complete without a discussion of fitness guru and pop culture icon Richard Simmons. Stephanie shares her memories of the most public patron and muse to an entire generation of doll artists. You can see Stephanie's amazing work here and learn more about NIADA here.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In this episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook provides his thoughts on how collectors assess condition and the grading of antiques which, in his belief, is and should always be subjective. He shares his approach in focusing on the positives first and the negatives as an adjunct. But, Stuart stresses that there is no uniform formula. Countless criteria affect a collector’s investigation of condition.  It's always personal and varies from one genre to another on everything from English Wooden Dolls to French and German Bisques to cloth, composition and hard plastic dolls. This episode helps you understand the nuances and steps to make your collecting work for you and to critically think through the process of assessing a doll's condition. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

You think you know the story of Barbie. However, unless you are an insider to the real history you may not know the name, Jack Ryan. He is now being thought of as The Father of Barbie who ushered in her true coming to life as the most iconic doll in history. He was an engineer, designer and the genius behind every nuance and curve of a doll recognized around the world. His story is a fascinating one. Not just as an engineer of missile projects for the Pentagon who later found himself as Mattel’s principle Engineer of Toys - but his later flamboyant and eccentric lifestyle that was at times both remarkable and complex. Ann Ryan, his daughter, literally grew up with the origins of her father’s creation, his life, and the wealth he created seemingly overnight. From their castle in Bel Air where Hollywood A-listers would party and visit nearly every day, to the ultimate pain her father would endure later in life by seemingly being wiped away from Barbie’s history. Throughout it all, Ann was in the room. This is her father’s story...as well as her own.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Every collector is unique in their focus. With that, every collector has the opportunity to build a unique brand as to their particular passion. Whether broad or narrow there are opportunities in doing so. Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook shows us in this episode how your identity is essentially a brand that can work for you in building your collection as well as help to protect and educate the world of doll collecting on the particular genre you love the most. Further, he explores how it adds a layer of enjoyment for collectors in becoming a researcher and spokesperson for a particular niche. Collecting is more than gathering. Collecting is a pursuit and discovery of your identity within a category you feel connected to and are passionate about. ik1ZoXr8BYVuFil0jRnXKeep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In this episode, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook, takes us into the origins of a collector’s heart and discusses some of the many reasons that collectors start collecting. That is, what was the trigger to it all? Using the collecting of dolls as one example, he takes his experiences at Theriault’s, and meeting collectors around the world over several decades, to unpack these recollections of the emotional and nostalgic reasons behind why we collect and continue collecting.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Sure, this title is a bit of fun click bait that is seemingly absurd. Or is it? In this episode Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook explores the value equation between the heart and mind. That is, how collectors personally connect to certain objects is far more powerful than perceived values. Why do some items at auctions soar above thought of values or estimates? What was behind the thinking of those collectors? Stuart takes us down the road of his 38 years of auctioning to better understand how collectibles are emotional markets and really, they should be. It’s an important opportunity for collectors who may be new to collecting, or steeped in the old school ways of price guides, to better understand how “pricing" works today amidst the intersection with the heart. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Stuart Holbrook has spent 38 years on the podium at Theriault’s guiding auctions of some of the world’s most unique collections. A few of these stand out in his  memory and not always because they were the biggest. Sometimes because of a special moment - or even surprising events leading up to the auction that made the sale all that more memorable. In one case it’s due to a complete failure! This episode of The Curious Collector is a journey through Stuart’s memory bank of those auctions he still thinks about today and the gained stories he has from those experiences. Some may be obvious. Others might come as a complete surprise. Either way it is a fun small recap of a few of these events from the past 37 years. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Tariffs have dominated much of the news for months now. But how does it affect collecting antiques? What do collectors need to know about the costs and how it relates to them? In this episode Stuart Holbrook, the President of Theriault's, takes us down the rabbit hole of explaining not just tariffs, but VAT, Import taxes, and sales taxes - how they work across the world depending on where you collect from. It’s a complex discussion which culminates with the reality that cultural items of age should unite us - not divide us with disparate abilities. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Every great collector brings their own experiences to their passion in how they build, connect, and engage a hobby. Each is unique. Few collectors have had more influence or inspired more collectors of dolls than Gail Cook. Her 45 years in the hobby has seen generational shifts in the way people buy, determine value, display and engage in the joy of collecting.  With that, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook takes us on a journey through some of the unique ways that Gail’s vision brought about so many changes in the approach and how she became part of the shift to a new pragmatic age. This episode is a personal look at Gail’s persona, how she became such a beloved and respected figure in collecting, and the determination of her building one of the most renowned collections in the world. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Collecting is full of opportunities. Many of these opportunities arise as “pockets of moments” in which you can jump in on certain categories that were once hot but are suddenly not. These are the ebbs and flows that every market displays. And by learning to track these movements, collectors have chances to add exceptional examples before that category inevitably rises again. In this episode of The Curious Collector, Stuart Holbrook, President of Theriault’s, helps us understand the whys of market shifts and the ways to not only identify them, but to feel confident in engaging them at the right time. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Everyone has a Covid story - at least one and probably many of them. In this new episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook shares his experiences at Theriault’s as to how the worldwide pandemic not only affected his own journey through managing an auction house, but how collectors adapted to these changes and were ultimately affected long term in the way they collect. He also talks about how the Covid period of 2020-2022 created one of the greatest surges in engagement ever seen in collectibles. It’s a fascinating introspective as society marks five years from when the world, and collecting, was forever altered. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

The Barry Art Museum in Norfolk, Virginia, founded by Carolyn and Richard Barry, serves as a beacon across the world in showcasing dolls in an extraordinary setting. That is, an art museum. Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook says this is a rare and unique opportunity for the narrative of dolls as an art form to be received by the general public. For too long dolls have been cast into the hinterlands of the art world. The Barry, driven by the vision of Carolyn Barry’s passion for the subject, brings legitimacy to the subject and validation to those who collect them. In this conversation with Dr. Sara Woodbury, Curator of Art at The Barry, she share this vision and her thoughts on dolls as an art form. She also talks with Stuart about the Barry Art Museum’s plans for expanding the doll gallery and further showcasing how this extraordinary collection intersects with its entire art collection. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Every collector reaches a moment of inflection within their collecting life. Keep collecting? Stop Collecting? The goal, of course, is to never waver. The happy life of a collector is one that should be structured and built with the future in mind to last a lifetime. That is going all the way to the end with the petal to the metal and a joyful smile.  In this episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook talks about why collector’s stop collecting early, why they may sell their collections for varying reasons, and helps to shape an idea that a life’s passion like this should hopefully extend an entire lifetime. His belief, working with collectors over decades in homes across the world, is that we all hit moments which beg for guidance as to how to move to the next stage. With this episode, he hopes to give an understanding and insight into these crossings and how to best navigate them.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Collectors walk many paths in life. Some are single, some in partnerships, and, of course, many are married. In this episode Stuart Holbrook, President of Theriaults, takes us on a journey through stories and experiences gained through his years of working with couples who collect together (and often apart) and the unique conversations he has witnessed from both sides of the spectrum. It’s a sometimes funny but poignant look at his over three decades with Theriault’s from which he offers a bit of advice for both people in any relationship that involves a collector.  Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

For over 25 years, Bill Greening’s unique designs and fashions brought Barbie into the new millennium. From Play to Collector lines, his passionate work helped shape the world’s most famous doll for new generations. Known by every Barbie collector, not just because of his designs, but also his passion as a collector himself, he has embraced every facet of the Barbie world and been supportive of collectors around the world as well as at shows and conventions. In Part Two of this conversation with Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook, Greening takes us further on his journey with Barbie and Mattel as he rose to become Principal Designer, how he balanced his career while also being a collector and he takes a look at his future path ahead in the world of fashion and figurative art.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

For over 25 years Bill Greening’s unique designs and fashion brought Barbie into the new millennium. From Play to Collector lines, his passionate work has helped shape the world’s most famous doll for new generations. Known by every Barbie collector, not just because of his designs, but also his passion as a collector himself, he has embraced every facet of the Barbie world and been supportive of collectors around the world and at shows and conventions. In this first of two episodes chatting with Greening, he takes us on a journey from his childhood in California to his early days at Mattel, fulfilling a lifelong dream of designing for Barbie. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In this new episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook delves into the future of collecting to identify potential upcoming trends and what the emerging generations will think about the protection of objects past. There are some surprising predictions that will hopefully be reassuring to today's collectors  that the items they passionately gather today will continue to be appreciated and protected well into the future.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Theriaut's President Stuart Holbrook chats with Florence Theriault in this deeply personal and candid look at her 55 year career in auctions, dolls and collecting. Spanning the early 1970’s until today this three-part Podcast allows Florence to recount with humor and sentiment the rise of Theriault’s from its humble beginnings along with the stories, characters and adventures that she's experienced along the way.  While a beloved figure in the world of dolls, we see a human side of Florence that few have come to know, especially a new generation of collectors who may only know her through her popular YouTube video channel. Part Three explores the current generation of collecting and the dramatic changes in not only how people collect in the marketplace but how they engage the hobby as a whole. Florence gives her thoughts as to these changes, what she loves and what she misses from the past. The episode finishes with Florence “writing a letter” to her younger self, what she would tell her. As well, her thoughts for new collectors or those just starting - offering sage advice for the future. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Theriaut's President Stuart Holbrook chats with Florence Theriault in this deeply personal and candid look at her 55 year career in auctions, dolls and collecting. Spanning the early 1970’s until today this three-part Podcast allows Florence to recount with humor and sentiment the rise of Theriault’s from its humble beginnings along with the stories, characters and adventures that she's experienced along the way.  While a beloved figure in the world of dolls, we see a human side of Florence that few have come to know, especially a new generation of collectors who may only know her through her popular YouTube video channel. Part Two takes us through the growth of Theriault’s in the 1980’s as Florence Theriault navigated the firm from the “old world" of the doll market into the new age of media and information. This led to  her transformation into collaborating on research projects during the 1990’s that worked to uncover much of today’s evolution of knowledge which she discusses in great detail. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Theriaut's President Stuart Holbrook chats with Florence Theriault in this deeply personal and candid look at her 55 year career in auctions, dolls and collecting. Spanning the early 1970’s until today this three-part Podcast allows Florence to recount with humor and sentiment the rise of Theriault’s from its humble beginnings along with the stories, characters and adventures that she's experienced along the way.  While a beloved figure in the world of dolls, we see a human side of Florence that few have come to know, especially a new generation of collectors who may only know her through her popular YouTube video channel. Part One takes us back to her youth, the founding of Theriault’s in the 1970’s, and the growth of doll collecting, auctions, and a business that has been dear to nearly her entire adult life. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

The Love Shirley Temple auction was an event that became one of the defining moments of Theriault President Stuart Holbrook’s career in showcasing the entire childhood of one of America’s great icons of the 20th century. All through the treasures that Shirley Temple personally preserved for decades.  In Part Two of this journey with Shirley, Stuart takes us from the conclusion of months of exhibits towards that final day in Kansas City in July of 2015. It was here that the world would see all of the pieces together as one and the progression of ownership and progression begin at auction. It took nearly a year to get there - but in just thirteen hours a thousand more stories would be told as each lot was offered to a global audience. Finally, Stuart shares a few thoughts of the ten years since as interesting stories emerged over this time on many of the items. Reaching the final conclusion, that still today, ten years later, and undoubtedly for hundreds more, the Shirley Temple legacy will live on. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

The Love, Shirley Temple auction was an event that became one of the defining moments of Theriaults' President Stuart Holbrook’s career in showcasing the entire childhood of one of America’s greatest icons of the 20th century. All through the treasures that Shirley Temple personally preserved for decades.  In this episode of The Curious Collector, Stuart takes you on a journey from the first time meeting the family of Shirley Temple through to the exhibits that traveled acrossed America in 2015. He captures the emotions of the multi-generations that came from far and away to pay homage to an American legend. He vividly describes many of those exhibits and the touching moments he witnessed as people shared their connection to Shirley and what it meant to them. This is an intro to Part Two which will talk about the auction event in 2015 to the now of the takeaways ten years later. It is an emotional tour through a year that many in the collecting world will never forget. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In this episode, Theriault's President, Stuart Holbrook takes us on a journey through doll history to share some of the oddest creations doll makers ever designed. As well, discussing the world of patents and how the scramble for the “next big thing” led to some very curious results. From the Bebe Bru Gourmand to the Ondine Swimming Doll, history has certainly provided some fun examples to reflect on. But not all were commercial failures. Stuart also ponders the why of how some of these, like Barbie, actually became massive hits in the end. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

A full life of collecting should involve numerous twists and turns. You start in one place with a few steps forward. Yet as you journey through this grand adventure you will find many back roads and detours to explore. Take them. Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook offers collectors not a map this time, but an encouragement to throw the map away and discover new aspects within collecting that you may randomly stumble on along the way. While doll collectors may start on one subject, the happy life of a collector is finding new categories to study and collect to stimulate a curious mind. He talks with Podcast Producer and Doll Collector Tammy Trujillo who is doing just that with the inclusion of several new types of dolls in her primarily all composition doll collection. With this goal of diversification, even when narrow, one will experience the true joy of collecting that can reward in numerous ways. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Stuart Holbrook has spent a majority of his life on the podium watching and conducting auctions as President of Theriault’s. With that, he has developed insider thoughts on the different type of bidders, how they fare in relation to their style, and interesting takeaways as to the success of each. As well, to showcase how online bidding is creating an entirely new strategy and approach as collectors more and more bid from home. He shares humorous auction anecdotes along the way that frame this interesting narrative of auctions and bidding. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In this episode of The Curious Collector, Theriault's President Stuart Holbrook shares his decades of experience traveling the world and how his passion for collecting and collectors creates meaningful experiences that transcend the guide book mentality of visiting destinations anywhere. He talks about how collecting and travel go hand in hand to form some of life’s richest experiences. From the collector of Lufthansa Rubber Ducks that once crossed the world and back for just one in 24 hours, to the enthusiast of French dolls who roams the streets of Paris with historic doll site addresses in hand - these adventures often form some of the most memorable and enriching parts of collecting. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Anyone who collects dolls has likely heard the comment, "Those Dolls are Creepy".  But why do so many non-collectors think that?  In this episode of The Curious Collector, Stuart Holbrook, the president of Theriault's Doll Auctions, dives into an exploration of how dolls got that label and what about them really creeps some people out.  He takes a look at one particular doll whose 'creepiness' means big business for a museum in Key West Florida. Is it all hype or is there really something to it?  And he examines how and why Hollywood has perpetuated the concept that there is something inherently evil in dolls that look too much like we do.  Stuart presents the concept that perhaps in order to get away from the 'creepy' stereotype, it's time to stop using the term dolls altogether and refer to them as figurative art as a way of advancing collecting and fostering respect and interest for the dolls themselves.  Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Over the last year - in two landmark auctions - Theriault's had the honor of auctioning items from famed Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art.  In this episode of The Curious Collector Stuart Holbrook reflects on those auctions and what he learned from the vast array of items of different genres that encompassed this world class museum.  In his ten takeaways, Stuart spotlights interesting trends that collectors can utilize, with Rosalie’s inspiration to guide. As well, personal moments that resonated for him, and perhaps other collectors as well. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Doll and Figurative Art Collecting is one of the most popular passions in the world today. But how do you start collecting dolls and why do you start collecting?  There is no one simple answer to those questions, but in this episode of The Curious Collector, Stuart Holbrook, President of Theriault's, looks at some of the many reasons that people all over the world begin investing their time and money into collecting dolls. Sometimes, it's a desire for nostalgia, other times, it's curiousity and sometimes it actually happens by accident.  And then once the decision is made, how does a person figure out what to buy, how to buy it and where to buy it.  Again, there are a myriad of techniques, but Stuart takes you step-by-step through the process of not only how to buy, but how to buy dolls that you will want to build your collection around and keep during your entire happy life as a doll collector.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In Part 2 of this incredible interview with Shelley Helzer, the daughter of famed collector, Rosalie Whyel, Stuart Holbrook traces the family back to it's roots in doll collecting - a path that led to Rosalie becoming a generational legend in the world of dolls with her founding of the Museum of Doll Art in Bellevue, Washington which was, during its 22-year run, at the forefront of collector destinations in the world. Stuart talks with Shelley about Rosalie’s early life growing up in Alaska, her ambitions for a world-class doll museum, and her times during it’s amazing run. As well, discussing the museum’s bittersweet closing in 2012 and the emotions surrounding that moment. It’s a deeply personal look into the life and times of one of the world’s most revered collectors - as told by her daughter in loving stories and memories. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

In Part 1 of this incredible interview with Shelley Helzer, the daughter of famed collector, Rosalie Whyel, Stuart Holbrook traces the family back to it's roots in doll collecting - a path that led to Rosalie becoming a generational legend in the world of dolls with her founding of the Museum of Doll Art in Bellevue, Washington which was, during its 22-year run, at the forefront of collector destinations in the world. Stuart talks with Shelley about Rosalie’s early life growing up in Alaska, her ambitions for a world-class doll museum, and her times during it’s amazing run. As well, discussing the museum’s bittersweet closing in 2012 and the emotions surrounding that moment. It’s a deeply personal look into the life and times of one of the world’s most revered collectors - as told by her daughter in loving stories and memories. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

When you find a doll that you really want, how much is too much to pay for it?  It turns out there is a lot that goes into the decision. On this episode of The Curious Collector, Stuart Holbrook explains the seven things that a collector needs to take into consideration when deciding just how much that doll is worth to them.  And on the flip side, Stuart talks about what happens when it's time to sell a collection and gives some valuable insight into what he looks for when evaluating a collection.  It turns out that there is quite a difference between the two.  It's an epsiode that has something for everyone, whether you are just starting your collection, looking for that 'holy grail' doll or considering letting your treasures move on to their next admiring owners. Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

There are many reasons why collectors collect and probably among the top ones is that they see their collections as investments.  But is that really the case?  In this episode of The Curious Collector, Stuart Holbrook, President of Theriaults' Auctions, looks at the how collecting dolls in particular has changed over the years and reveals some startling trends.  And it's not just that collecting has changed; it turns out collectors have changed as well. Stuart talks about how just a few people can change the interest and value in a collectible and when they've gotten their fill and stop buying, that collectible might actually plummet in value. But as Stuart notes, the real key to collecting is the joy that the items you buy bring you and that can be worth much more than money.  Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art. 

Hi, I’m Stuart Holbrook your host for The Curious Collector, a Podcast for Collectors and those who may be collector curious. As President of one of the world’s most unique auction houses, Theriault’s, I have spent my life amongst collectors around the world amidst every facet of their, well, what I like to call, collectorvolution. That is how these collectors started, evolved, and later sold their beloved items. I can share with you the lessons they and I have experienced along this journey through the past while also recognizing and responding to changing patterns happening now - and how new generations will embrace collecting for the future. While dolls, toys, teddy bears and figurative art form the core of my experience, collectors of anything and everything will find useful advice and discussions that will also help them in whichever category makes their heart sing. So sit back, have a listen, and enjoy every few weeks a new episode at The Curious Collector focusing on subjects that will make your collectorvolution even more fun and engaging over time.Keep up with Stuart at curiouscollect.com and check out Theriaults.com as well where you can learn more as to the exciting auctions held throughout the year at Theriault’s, the world’s leader in the auction of dolls and figurative art.