Barbie x Keiichi Tanaami: a collaboration celebrating Japanese pop art

Barbie plunged into the surreal world of Japanese pop art thanks to a unique collaboration with the legendary artist Keiichi Tanaami. A month ago, we already wrote about this wonderful collectible fashion doll, but now it has been officially announced and will be on sale on August 23, 2024 as a Mattel Creations exclusive. This fashion doll pays tribute to Tanaami's sixty-year career in the art world.

Keiichi Tanaami is a pioneer of the pop art movement, who has been perfecting his craft for over 60 years. Known for his vivid, surreal style, Tanaami's work has captivated art connoisseurs around the world. The Barbie x Keiichi Tanaami doll is a bright embodiment of Tanaami's eclectic style.

Barbie wears a multi-colored, tiered leather dress adorned with a 3D face and a crab motif, a nod to Tanaami's rich cultural heritage. Her bright yellow headdress with prying eyes with vinyl eyelashes and a central eye on top of the crown adds an extra layer of surrealism. This unique fashion statement isn't just about looking good, it's about celebrating the fusion of art and fashion in a way that "sees everything and reveals nothing."

This special Barbie is more than just a collector's item, it's a tribute to Tanaami's decades of contributions to the art world. Reinterpreted through the surreal lens of his work, the doll is part of a celebration of Tanaami's work that will be included in a career retrospective at the National Arts Center in Tokyo. This exhibition showcases six decades of the artist's work and will run from August 7 to November 11, 2024.

The packaging for the Barbie x Keiichi Tanaami doll is as carefully designed as the doll itself. It features a Japanese-style background, perfect for displaying this limited edition collectible. The doll also carries a mesh drawstring bag featuring a gold Tanaami dragonfish, adding whimsy and depth to the overall design.

The Barbie x Keiichi Tanaami collaboration is a must-have for collectors and art lovers alike, especially Pop Art. It's not just a doll, it's a celebration of one of Japan's most influential pop artists and a testament to a wonderful collaboration in pushing the boundaries of art and fashion.

For those eager to experience Tanaami's work firsthand, don't miss the retrospective at the National Arts Center in Tokyo, where you can explore the intersection of art, fashion and memory through the eyes of a true pop art legend.