Nicolette Bénard

How Barbie Changed My Art: The Inspiration Behind Project B. As a child, I had little interest in Barbie dolls. It wasn’t until 2019 that I discovered Barbie could be more than just a toy. This realization led to Project B, an artistic venture in which I transform Barbie dolls into sculptural works that explore the fine line between perfection and imperfection. This project is a reflection on beauty standards, societal expectations, and the complexities of identity. But how did it all begin?

 

From Toy to Art Object. My fascination with Barbie did not stem from nostalgia but from observation. Barbie is a cultural icon, a symbol of perfection but also a reflection of unrealistic beauty standards. By reshaping, redefining,and placing her in a new context, I transform her from a conventional doll into a unique work of art. Every Barbie within Project B undergoes a metamorphosis. I manipulate the dolls using various techniques, from distortion to integrating them with plexiglass and other materials. The result? Intriguing sculptures that challenge perceptions of identity and self-image.