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By Leslie Hast
November 26, 2008


In true beach bum style, country star Kenny Chesney's paper dolls look ready for a day of sand and surf.

Pop star Christina Aguilera's polka-dot extravaganza showcases her creativity and artistry.

See slideshow images of the dolls and party here.
To bid on celebrity-created paper dolls click here.

With paint, markers, glue, glitter and even wigs and tiny cowboy hats, celebrities from Nashville and beyond have turned the red paper doll logo of the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt into one-of-a-kind artwork.

Through Project Paper Doll, the creations are now up for auction on eBay, with proceeds benefiting the Children’s Hospital.

More than 60 wooden paper dolls have been decorated and autographed, and participants include Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Kid Rock, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Brad Paisley, Jessica Simpson, Christina Aguilera, Willie Nelson and Vince Young.

Chesney’s offering carries his popular ocean theme, with little flip-flops and beach hats. Rascal Flatts decorated their dolls with a road map and characters from the movie “Cars,” reflecting their smash hit “Life Is a Highway” from that movie.

The auction will take place in three phases, with dozens of dolls available in each phase. Bidding for the final group ends Dec. 17. Visit www.ebay.com/paperdolls to place a bid.

Now in its second year, Project Paper Doll was founded by Bryan Frasher, vice president of National Promotion for BNA Nashville, and his wife, Traci. Many members of the country music industry were involved in planning the fundraiser.

The paper dolls debuted Nov. 17 at a party in the Children’s Hospital Theater, and Brian Philips, executive vice president and general manager of CMT, served as honorary chairman. Philips has six children and admits to keeping the Children’s Hospital busy.

“This is the most important building in Nashville,” he said. “It needs all the attention and focus, and we’re lucky to have the opportunity to shine a light on this place.”

Philips said the artists have “gone above and beyond with their time and effort. It is obvious that their creativity extends to every part of their lives.”

Katie Rush, 17, decorated dolls to thank the project’s sponsors. Her dolls carried a blue background with rainbows, sunshine and hearts, and the words “hope” and ”love” written in different languages because “the hospital gives so much love and hope to patients,” she said.

Now a senior in high school, Katie was diagnosed with diabetes at age 3, had a stroke in eighth grade and was subsequently diagnosed with lupus.



Tags: Entertainment Industry, Fundraising