An exhibition on the development of the Barbie brand over the past 65 years is opening in London this week, as the famous Mattel doll celebrates its 65th anniversary this year.
“Barbie: The Exhibition,” held at the Design Museum from July 5th to February 23rd, showcases more than 250 items from the Barbie world, including a range of dolls that illustrate her evolving look, designer sketches, and dream houses.
The exhibition will feature the first edition of the original 1959 Barbie doll with blonde hair in a black-and-white swimsuit, along with later models representing various races, hair textures, and body shapes.
Other “first editions” include the black Barbie and Barbie in a wheelchair. One section is dedicated to careers, featuring Barbie as a police officer, scientist, doctor, and president, while another section focuses on Barbie’s long-time companion Ken, who was introduced in 1961.
“I hope that whether you are a Barbie fanatic or a Barbie skeptic, you will leave the exhibition with respect for the detailed research and thought that goes into the design of Barbie dolls,” said curator Danielle Thom in an interview.
The exhibition coincides with the brand’s 65th anniversary and builds on the tremendous success of last year’s “Barbie” movie starring Margot Robbie, which grossed 1.4 billion dollars at the global box office.
“The resonance of the Barbie brand and culture has never been greater,” said Kim Culmone, Senior Vice President of Design at Mattel.
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