The exhibit traces Barbie’s evolution from her 1959 debut to present
The world’s most recognizable doll will take over The Cincinnati Museum Center, bringing with her some of her most iconic outfits, pink Corvette and Dreamhouse. “Barbie: A Cultural Icon” will open at the museum center on April 4 and run through September 1.
Curated and toured by Illusion Projects Inc., the exhibit traces Barbie’s evolution from her 1959 debut to the present, highlighting her many transformations over six decades. Featuring rare and vintage artifacts, interviews with some of the doll’s designers and even a few photo opportunities, the exhibit allows visitors to “step back into your childhood,” according to the museum center, and learn about “the making of a global icon.”
Within the exhibit, visitors will learn about the many forms Barbie has taken on, including her ever-evolving career as an astronaut, doctor, president and more. Additionally, visitors will learn about the creation of Christie, the first Black doll in the Barbie line, and the addition of Barbie’s boyfriend Ken.
In addition to serving as a retrospective of Malibu’s most famous resident, the exhibit will look at some of the most notable fashion trends of the past 60 years. Visitors will see Barbie get her groove on with 1970s beachwear and disco designs. More notably, sections on the 1980s and 1990s showcase Mattel’s growing emphasis on diversity; visitors can see Barbie dolls representing a range of ethnicities and body types including a feature on the first Black Barbie.
Curated by Karan Feder, in partnership with Mattel, “Barbie: A Cultural Icon” tickets start at $19.50 and are available— along with further information—on the museum center’s website.
