Barbie the Icon at the Mudec Museum Milan

All the Worlds of Barbie at Mudec Museum in Milan

The exhibition Barbie the Icon, on view at the Mudec museum in Milan until March 2016, is really an event for people of all ages: from those who had loved the most famous of all dolls in the past to those who hated it instead; and, of course, for all the children who love her now.

Those who loved Barbie have now the occasion to go back to their childhood and meet again their blonde heroine, along with the full kit of dresses, footwear, villas, companions, and boyfriends that populated her wonderful world.
Those who hated her can find again, and perhaps turn down, the reasons that led many little (and slightly wicked) girls to cut off her long hair and make fun of that perfect universe.
But “Barbie the icon” is above all, although not exclusively, an exhibition made for all the children that love Barbie today.

The exhibition, curated by Massimilano Cappella, is divided into five sections.
“Who is Barbie” showcases 7 iconic dolls dating from the Fifties to the present day.
“Barbie is Fashion” features Barbie’s dresses by some of the most acclaimed international fashion designers.
“Barbie Family” presents all friends and relatives that form her large crew.
“Dolls of the World” depicts the multiethnic side of Barbie who, in a 56-year-long distinguished career, has broken away the language and social barriers and somehow brought different cultures closer.

Installation views of the section “Barbie is Fashion”, © Inexhibit 2015

Installation views of the section “Dolls of the World”, © Inexhibit 2015

“Barbie Careers”, is an overview of the many professions, about 150, he practiced in her life: from Barbie nurse to Barbie UNICEF ambassador, from astronaut to sport-woman (basketball player and race car driver), up to candidate for United States president.
Finally, “Queen, Diva and Celebrity” showcases Barbie’s versions inspired by heroines, movie stars, and famous women.

Installation views of the sections “Barbie Careers” and “Queen, Diva, and Celebrity”, © Inexhibit 2015

The design of the exhibition amplifies the dreamy world of Barbie who, in all her possible versions, emerges from the darkness of dim-lighted rooms as a multicolor and sparkling figure enclosed in bright display cases. These cases, along with all other elements of the exhibition, have been designed and installed to be “child-friendly”: everything is positioned, either suspended or placed on pedestals, slightly lower than usual and is also slightly smaller, including the reconstruction of Barbie’s house, her wardrobe, her bedroom, and all the interactive exhibits on show.

Barbie the icon
Mudec, via Tortona, 56, Milan
From October 28, 2015, to March 13, 2016