If you have an impressionable small child who worships Barbie dolls, you will probably want to stay far, far away from the San Francisco Altered Barbie Exhibition, the annual gallery show that stars Barbies worked into a number of scenarios Mattel would never go for. On the other hand, if you have a child who you want to teach some lessons on objectification, femininity, and cultural norms, the Altered Barbies are a lot more instructive than a lecture.
What will your child take away from a viewing of “Dykes on Bikes” Barbies? How about a Barbie dragging along a crucifix, or a Barbie riding on a chaps-wearing Ken’s back, hand up to give him a good smack? Hmm, maybe you’ll want to steer the kids away from that one.
Children who grew up in the Age of Bratz may not get the humor — why is it funny, exactly, that the Altered Barbie show casts her as a kung-fu warrior, a punk rocker or a conjoined twin? This show may engender some uncomfortable questions — and interesting discussions with sophisticated children who understand there’s heavy irony underlaying most of the sculptures, photographs, and videos on display.
When: Daily through 8/17, 12-5pm; All ages; Free.
Where: Art 94124 Gallery, 3900-B Third St. at San Francisco, 415-240-2202, alteredbarbie.com.