Former janitor transforms passion for art into thriving custom doll business

Noel Cruz, a former janitor, has made a name for himself in the international doll community. Cruz’s journey from maintenance staff in the United States to a distinguished repaint artist is nothing short of inspiring.

His niche business revolves around his lifelong passion for art and an eye for transformation. Cruz has found his calling in buying ordinary toy store dolls and meticulously repainting them to resemble famous personalities. His creations are not just dolls but works of art, capturing the likenesses of celebrated figures such as Johnny Depp, Meryl Streep, and Angelina Jolie. The collection also includes revered icons like Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II, as well as local stars like Liza Soberano and Pia Wurtzbach.

Cruz’s dolls have not only garnered attention from doll enthusiasts but have also been featured in international media outlets, including the New York Times and the UK Daily Mail. His dolls command impressive prices at auction, ranging from $500 to $3,500. A testament to his skill, a custom Katniss Everdeen doll created by him was sold for $2,500 on eBay.

In interviews with Pep and Bitag Media, Noel Cruz shared his satisfaction with running a profitable business that aligns with his passion. He emphasized the importance of client satisfaction and takes great pride in his craftsmanship, aiming to ensure that customers feel their purchase was well worth the cost.

Cruz’s story is one of determination and the power of passion. Having grown up in poverty, he supported his family through his talent in drawing, ultimately paving the way for his current success. He stands as a beacon of hope, highlighting that with heart and drive, achieving the impossible is within reach.