Hi Barbie! See 65 years of history at new Phoenix exhibit
The era of Barbie everything is far from over, especially now that the Phoenix Art Museum is decked out in all things pink to showcase 65 years of the doll’s remarkable history.
“Barbie: A Cultural Icon” takes viewers on a journey through Barbie’s history and the impact she’s had on culture, fashion and multiple generations of women.
And it’s a two-for-one deal: You not only get to explore the generations of Barbie, but you also get to see a bonus exhibition, “The Power of Pink.” This special add-on explores the history, science and associations of Barbie’s signature color.
Here’s what you absolutely should not miss at the Phoenix Art Museum’s new Barbie exhibit.
Best things to see at ‘Barbie: A Cultural Icon’
Throughout the exhibition, you’ll learn how Barbie inspired fashion designers, how she was updated over the decades to fit the changing times and how Mattel’s Dream Gap Project is continuing to pave the way for future women.
The Dream Gap Project is “a global mission dedicated to closing the gap by challenging gender stereotypes and helping undo the biases that hold girls back from reaching their full potential,” according to mattel.com.
While the entire exhibit is fascinating and you should take your sweet time soaking it in, here are five highlights you won’t want to miss:
h The first Barbie, issued in 1959, wearing her original black and white striped bathing suit and sunglasses in a glass case on loan from Mattel.
h Barbie’s pink convertible made life size for the perfect Instagram post. You can also strike a pose in life-size Barbie and Ken doll boxes.
h See how Barbie is created with an in-depth look at every stage the doll goes through during production.
h Sit on an exact replica of Barbie’s couch from her first Dreamhouse, which is also on display.
h See all the sizes, shapes, ethnicities and backgrounds Barbie now comes in so every girl can see herself in doll form.
Don’t miss “The Power of Pink,” where you can see how many designers, artists and celebrities have been inspired by Barbie’s favorite color.*