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In the summer of 2023, I began this project in response to an open call by PH21 Gallery (ph21gallery.com) in Budapest, Hungary.  The exhibition, titled "Dolling Up the Lens: Barbie" was focused on exploring the cultural effects of Barbie (good and bad). With this in mind, combined with a summer filled with sobering reality, I began pondering what Barbie's life would look like in the real world.

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It didn't take long.  Sadly, removing Barbie from her fantastical life was not a difficult task.   Violence, war, prejudice, mental health issues, addictions, aging, illness, homelessness, and evil are familiar headlines. Too familiar to some and arguably, not familiar enough to others.  ​

For Barbie fans out there, perhaps this is taking it a bit too far. Perhaps the fantasy world of Barbie serves a purpose beyond my matured recognition.  That said, I never played with Barbies as a kid.  Her perfect world was not mine to behold as a child.   I can only view her world now as an adult with a lifetime of experiences that serves as a reminder: Reality sometimes sucks. 

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"Final Goodbye" and "Homeless" part of 2023 "Dolling Up the Lens: Barbie" Curated Exhibit   

PH21 Gallery, Budapest, Hungary

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