Barbie Comes To The Phoenix Art Museum
Photo: Jason Harper Photograpy, Courtesy Illusion Projects, Inc. and Mattel Inc. © 2020 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.
Love her or hate her, Barbie is a cultural force to reckon with—and no one reckons quite like Phoenix Art Museum, which offers two related exhibitions this year. “Barbie®: A Cultural Icon” is a visiting exhibit that predates the blockbuster movie. In addition to exploring how the doll and her outfits responded to and shaped different movements in history, “Barbie®” features a life-size interactive Corvette and a full- size kitchen among other photo-friendly features.
But if “Barbie®” is a bubblegum taste of the beloved doll, the complementary “Power of Pink” offers a thoughtful rejoinder. Rooted in fashion, politics and culture, the exhibition is curated by Helen Jean, the Jacquie Dorrance Curator of Fashion Design, and features some 15 ensembles for men and women that exemplify the many tones and fabrications of Barbie’s signature hue. “I’m especially proud of the historical looks that I’ve styled,” Jean says. “They draw from period-correct accessories but feel almost modern in some of the color combinations.” All the pieces come from the museum’s collection, some of which haven’t been seen in 25 years. “Visitors will be surprised by the fun facts they may not have encountered before,” Jean promises. Both exhibitions will be on view until July 7.
Photo: Jason Harper Photograpy, Courtesy Illusion Projects, Inc. and Mattel Inc. © 2020 Mattel. All Rights Reserved.
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