11th Annual Eclectic Collector Series
BARBIE Doll: The 11½-inch American Icon
From the Collection of the Strojek Family
Study Gallery
July 12, 2012 through January 6, 2013
Free opening reception on July 13, 5 - 8 pm, in conjunction with downtown Little Rock's 2nd Friday Art Night
The Barbie doll appeared in 1959. Developed by Ruth Handler, co-founder of the Mattel Toy Corporation, Barbie was named after her daughter, Barbara. The Ken doll was named after her son. Throughout the years, and despite its controversial depiction of female form and beauty, the Barbie doll has remained popular with children and collectors alike.
For the Strojek family the Barbie bug began in 1988 and has continued through today. Currently the collection consists of 82 dolls and eight completed series as well as a vintage dollhouse, cars and adventure books.