Barbie takes over Galleria Cavour
Ph: Courtesy of Contemporary Concept press office
Bologna is set to witness a meeting of icons: Galleria Cavour, the city’s symbol of elegance and beauty, is preparing to host a timeless legend of international fashion and style, Barbie. From 18 September until 20 November, ‘Barbie Couture’ will come to life – an exhibition curated by Alessandra Lepri, conceived and organised by Contemporary Concept under the artistic direction of Gaetano La Mantia.
The project brings to the city a selection of over 200 Barbies from Paola Felli’s private collection, the result of thirty years of passionate research and comprising unique pieces, special editions, limited editions and OOAK (One Of A Kind) creations – that is, couture interpretations crafted by the world’s most famous fashion designers and stylists. The initiative forms part of the cultural project promoted by Gioia Martini, which aims to strengthen the role of the Gallery as a meeting place for fashion, art and contemporary culture, where luxury is not merely an aesthetic expression but also an opportunity for learning, experience and personal enrichment.
First unveiled on 9 March 1959 at the New York Toy Fair, Barbie was a doll that changed the world of toys forever and, subsequently, the very face of femininity, gradually becoming a pop icon, a cult object and then a symbol capable of narrating and interpreting decades of women’s emancipation. Entire worlds have been built around her image – so different from that of traditional dolls – spanning the realms of art, fashion, cinema and design. The exhibition was conceived precisely with the aim of exploring Barbie beyond her original role as a fashion doll, tracing her gradual transformation into a cultural icon, and focuses specifically on her capacity for transformation.
The exhibition layout is characterised by a strong visual identity and an immersive experience in which pink – the colour universally associated with the Barbie brand – becomes both an architectural and narrative element. Among the various sections, ‘Barbie Couture’ stands out: a space dedicated to the special relationship between Barbie and haute couture. Couture gowns, designs inspired by the great fashion houses and sartorial experiments illustrate her deep connection with the fashion world. Visitors can explore Barbie’s world at Galleria Cavour from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10.00 to 13.00 and from 16.00 to 19.00. Admission to the exhibition is free.
Ph: Courtesy of Contemporary Concept press office