This Altered Barbie show presented an opportunity to consider my complex feelings towards this iconic figure. On the occasion of Barbie’s 50th birthday, it seemed like an appropriate time to have a reunion. Having survived this rite of passage myself, it was time to reflect.
Initially I planned to use my beloved childhood dolls for this project (yes, I still have them). I couldn’t bring myself to decapitate, paint or otherwise denude them. Fortunately, The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse had an excellent selection. Later, I realized these were Asian Barbies. The one from the Philippines had articulated hands. Both the Chinese and Indonesian Barbie had underwear chastely printed on their nether regions. Chinese Barbie had a headset sewn to her head….Call Center Barbie?
Of course, Barbie set impossible standards for us little girls. Yet one must admit she has led an adventurous life. Separated from feminist concerns, I take genuine pleasure in her fantastic wardrobe. Perhaps she inspired a love for detail that informs my artwork now. As a sculpture, Barbie’s feet continue to frighten me, but her hands are undeniably beautiful.
For “Measurements,” I have repurposed an abandoned drawer for Barbie to inhabit. Ken is spying on her through the window. Barbie herself is painted purple and covered in eggshell mosaic. Since so much of Barbie’s appeal is tied to sexuality, I wanted to make a piece that explored her relationship with Ken.
“Cleanliness (Is Next to Godliness)” continues my series of paper clotheslines. I wanted to make outfits for Barbie using her own image. However, I’m sure Barbie would not use a clothesline herself. She probably had an endorsement deal with Maytag.
“His & Hers” features more paper clothes, riffing on pink for girls, blue for boys. I’ve heard it’s now OK for boys to like pink. That may not be peace on earth or the falling of the Berlin Wall, but it is progress.