Emma Mykytyn Barbie®: The Exhibition Makes Its Scottish Debut at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Scotland is set to welcome one of the world’s most iconic cultural brands this summer as Barbie®: The Exhibition opens at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum for the very first time.
Launching on 13 June 2026 and running until 18 October 2026, the major exhibition brings together more than 250 fascinating objects that explore Barbie’s remarkable 67-year history, from her 1959 debut through to her continued influence on fashion, design, creativity and popular culture today.
Presented by Glasgow Life in partnership with the Design Museum, London, and Mattel, the exhibition transforms Kelvingrove’s lower gallery into a colourful celebration of one of the world’s most recognisable dolls and the global phenomenon she has become.
A Journey Through 67 Years of Barbie
Visitors can discover an extensive collection of dolls, fashions, Dreamhouses, vehicles, accessories and rare archive material that chart Barbie’s evolution over nearly seven decades.
The exhibition offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the creativity, craftsmanship and design innovation that have helped keep Barbie relevant across generations.
Among the standout exhibits is a rare original hand-painted Number 1 Barbie from 1959, one of more than 150 dolls on display. Visitors will also see beloved editions including Sunset Malibu Barbie (1971), Day to Night Barbie (1985) and the hugely successful Totally Hair Barbie (1992).
Reflecting Society Through Design
A key theme throughout the exhibition is Barbie’s changing representation of society.
From the first Black, Hispanic and Asian dolls to carry the Barbie name, to more recent releases including the first Barbie with Down Syndrome and the first Barbie in a wheelchair, the exhibition highlights how the brand has evolved alongside cultural and social change.
Fashion, architecture and interior design also take centre stage, with original outfits, Dreamhouses and accessories showcasing changing trends in style and modern living across the decades.
More Than Just Barbie
The wider Barbie universe is explored through displays dedicated to Ken, who first appeared in 1961, as well as couture collaborations and designer fashions that demonstrate the creative influence of the brand.
The final section examines Barbie’s enduring impact beyond the toy aisle, exploring her role as a global cultural icon whose influence stretches across fashion, film, design and contemporary culture.
A Major Summer Attraction for Glasgow
Bailie Annette Christie, Chair of Glasgow Life, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Barbie: The Exhibition to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and proud to be the first venue in Scotland to host this major exhibition.
“Barbie has inspired generations through fashion, creativity, ambition and play, and this exhibition offers visitors the chance to explore that story in fresh and surprising ways. From rare early dolls and Dreamhouses to fashion, design and pop culture moments, there’s something for everyone to discover.”
Tim Marlow, Director and CEO of the Design Museum, added:
“Design has been at the heart of Barbie’s story since the very first doll was created 67 years ago. When the exhibition opened in London, it exceeded even our expectations, proving both fascinating and nostalgic for audiences of all ages. We are delighted that visitors in Glasgow will now have the opportunity to experience it in another world-class museum setting.”
As one of Europe’s leading cultural destinations, Glasgow continues to attract major exhibitions celebrating art, design and popular culture, and Barbie: The Exhibition is set to become one of the city’s must-see attractions this summer.
Visitor Information
Barbie®: The Exhibition opens at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum on 13 June 2026 and runs until 18 October 2026.
Tickets and further information are available at www.glasgowlife.org.uk/barbie.
