It was 65 years ago when the world was first introduced to a doll that would go on to become a part of the lives of countless children.
That doll is Barbie.
"She was introduced here in New York City at the Flatiron Building in 1959 and she wasn't a hit, sorry, people didn't know what to make of Barbie," said Tim Rodgers, the director of the Museum of Arts and Design, which is home to an exhibition called "Barbie A Cultural Icon."
"She was an adult doll and people were used to little baby dolls for girls, and so this was very unusual and it took a while for her to catch fire, but when she did she became extremely popular," Rodgers added.
What You Need To Know
- "Barbie: A Cultural Icon" is an exhibition being shown at the Museum of Arts and Design at Columbus Circle
- The exhibition features more than 250 vintage dolls
- The Barbie exhibition follows a popular one that focused on pop star Taylor Swift
Barbie was created by businesswoman and Mattel Toys Co-Founder Ruth Handler. The exhibition is a trip through time with Barbie, from the introduction of a boyfriend, Ken, to a black doll, Barbie's friend Christie.
Visitors can see the first ensembles for Barbie and the many careers she has had over the years.
Rodgers said Barbie was an inspiration for many over the years.
"Barbie has really pushed the edge of what was possible in the United States for woman and as a result it opened those doors," said Rodgers.
There are more than 250 vintage dolls on display, including limited editions created by designers like Bob Mackie and Oscar de la Renta. It's a Barbie world for sure, a follow up to the museum's popular Taylor Swift exhibition.
"We're really interested in this intersection of popular culture and design, I think it's an area that has so many wonderful designers. There's a great deal of money and talent at play, and I think it's an area that doesn't get investigated enough particularly here in New York and we are very interested," said Rodgers.
It's a dream house for Barbie fans, on display through March 16. Plan your visit at here.