Dive into Barbie’s World at London’s Design Museum

London Descends into Barbie-mania: Design Museum Hosts Spectacular Barbie Exhibition

In a city famed for its cultural landmarks and vibrant arts scene, London has once again embraced the phenomenon that took the world by storm last year: Barbie-mania. Iconic landmarks were bathed in Barbie’s signature pink, and even the city’s buses donned the famed doll’s aesthetic. The fever for Barbie, it seems, is far from over. If the Barbie craze still has a hold on you, prepare to be thrilled by the latest announcement: a comprehensive Barbie exhibition is opening at the Design Museum this week.

The Exhibition: A Barbie Lover’s Dream

Starting July 5, 2024, and running until February 23, 2025, the Design Museum in Kensington will be home to a dazzling Barbie exhibition. This event promises to be a pilgrimage for fans of the beloved toy, offering an intimate look at the evolution and cultural impact of Barbie over the past 65 years. Curated by Danielle Thorn, the exhibition boasts unprecedented access to the Barbie archives in California, ensuring a collection of rare and unique artifacts.

Inside the Exhibition: A Journey Through Time

Visitors to the Design Museum can expect a rich tapestry of Barbie’s history. Among the 180 dolls and accessories on display, a first-edition Barbie from 1959, created by Ruth Handler, stands out as a highlight. This rare doll will be complemented by the first-ever Barbie Dreamhouse, a cardboard creation from 1962, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Barbie’s early days.

The exhibition, meticulously curated over three years, showcases more than just the dolls. It delves into how Barbie has continuously adapted to reflect and influence societal trends. From challenging stereotypes to promoting diversity and feminism, Barbie’s journey is a testament to her enduring legacy and relevance.

Not Just About Barbie: The Ken Collection

While Barbie takes center stage, Ken is not forgotten. A dedicated section will showcase six decades of Ken dolls since his introduction in 1961, exploring his role and evolution within the Barbie universe. This “small but dedicated section for Kens” will highlight his own unique contributions to the Barbie story.

Beyond the Doll: Exploring the Barbie Universe

Curator Danielle Thom emphasizes that the exhibition is not just about Barbie as a toy but about the entire universe she inhabits. This immersive experience will explore Barbie’s influence on fashion, architecture, furniture, and vehicle design. The exhibition offers a fascinating look at how Barbie’s world parallels and influences our own, echoing the themes of the recent blockbuster film.

Tim Marlow, director of the Design Museum, notes, “Barbie is one of the most recognizable brands on the planet, and her story evolves with each new generation. We are excited to display a range of eye-catching objects, some familiar but many never seen before, to showcase the evolution of design across the decades of Barbie’s world.”

Visiting the Exhibition

Barbie®: The Exhibition opens tomorrow, July 5, and runs until February 23, 2025. Located at the Design Museum on Kensington High Street, visitors can easily access the exhibition via High Street Kensington and Kensington (Olympia) stations. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this unique celebration of Barbie’s enduring legacy.

The Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High Street, W8 6AG. The nearest stations are High Street Kensington and Kensington (Olympia).

Immerse yourself in Barbie’s world and discover how this iconic doll has shaped and been shaped by the world around her. After all, it’s Barbie’s world, and we’re all just living in it.