The Design Museum in London showcases an extensive collection of Barbie dolls in its latest exhibit. With 180 dolls on display, ranging from the mechanical insides of 1968’s ‘talking Barbie’ to 1975’s ‘growing up Skipper’ with her innovative arm-rotating feature that made her bust increase, this exhibition leaves no stone unturned in charting the history of this iconic toy. The exhibit is a journey through Barbie’s evolution, reflecting not just changes in fashion and culture, but also technological advancements in toy manufacturing.
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Stepping into the exhibit, one is immediately struck by the sheer variety of Barbies on display. There’s something mesmerizing about seeing so many dolls in one place, each representing a snapshot of the era from which they hail. Whether dressed in the high fashion of the 1960s or sporting the athletic gear of the 1980s, each Barbie tells a unique story. For those who grew up with these dolls, it’s a nostalgic trip back through time, while for younger visitors, it’s a fascinating peek into the past.
Barbie has always been more than just a toy; she’s a cultural icon, symbolizing the changing roles and perceptions of women over the decades. When Barbie was first introduced in 1959, she represented a revolutionary idea — a doll that wasn’t a baby and didn’t immediately imply domesticity. She was a fashion model, an astronaut, and even a presidential candidate, paving the way for generations of girls to imagine various possibilities for their own futures.
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The exhibit also does not shy away from controversy. Barbie has often been criticized for promoting unrealistic body standards. Her impossibly thin waist and long legs have been a topic of debate for many years. The exhibit addresses these issues, highlighting both the criticism and Mattel’s attempts to create more inclusive dolls with a variety of body types, skin tones, and abilities in recent years. It’s a reflection of the broader societal push for diversity and body positivity.
One of the highlights of the exhibit is the section dedicated to the behind-the-scenes mechanics of Barbie’s design and production. Detailed diagrams and deconstructed dolls reveal the ingenuity and craftsmanship involved in creating these toys. For example, the ‘talking Barbie’ from 1968 showcased a miniature record player hidden inside her torso that could play pre-recorded phrases. The complexity and creativity behind these innovations are truly fascinating, giving visitors a newfound appreciation for the work that goes into making each doll.
Another crowd favorite is the ‘growing up Skipper’, introduced in 1975. This doll sparked significant controversy because, when her arm was rotated, she would grow taller and her chest would develop, marking her transition from a girl to a teenager. While some saw this as an interesting novelty, others felt it was inappropriate, adding to the ongoing debate about the representation of women in toys. The exhibit presents these differing viewpoints, encouraging visitors to reflect on their own perspectives.
However, beyond the dolls themselves, the exhibit explores Barbie as a cultural artifact. She reflects the times she was created in — from the space race excitement that led to Astronaut Barbie to the feminist movement that saw Barbie taking on more varied and ambitious careers. The exhibit showcases advertisements, promotional materials, and historical documents that provide context for each era’s Barbie. This not only makes the exhibit rich in content but also educational, offering insights into the broader historical and cultural trends that Barbie both influenced and was influenced by.
The Design Museum has also integrated interactive elements to engage visitors further. There are sections where attendees can design their own Barbie outfits, watch clips from Barbie movies and commercials, and even listen to talks by historians and cultural critics about Barbie’s impact on society. These features make the exhibit not just a visual feast but an immersive learning experience.
But with all the recent advancements in inclusivity and diversity, does Barbie still hold relevance today? In an era where children have a plethora of toys and entertainment options, and where societal values are continuously evolving, some might question whether Barbie can still capture imaginations as she once did. The answer, as the exhibit suggests, is a resounding yes. Barbie’s ability to adapt and evolve with the times ensures her relevance, and her enduring popularity is testimony to her impact.
In conclusion, the ‘Barbie at the Design Museum’ exhibit is not just for doll enthusiasts; it’s for anyone interested in cultural history, design, and the sociology of toys. It’s a comprehensive and thoughtful exploration of one of the most iconic toys in history, highlighting both her triumphs and controversies. So, are we still bothered about Barbie? Absolutely. She remains a significant cultural touchstone, finely balancing nostalgia with modernity.
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