Los Angeles’ Corey Helford Gallery (CHG), is transforming childhood nostalgia into high art with its latest stellar exhibition, Toys As Art, Art Inspired By Toys: Mattel’s 80th Anniversary Group Exhibition. Opened 15 March in partnership with Mattel Creations, the show brings together over 80 artists from across the globe, all riffing on the pop culture icons that have defined generations.
From the ‘Godfather of Pop Surrealism’ Mark Ryden’s signature surrealist dreamscapes to the playful irreverence of art icon Paul Frank, the bold statements of London-based multimedia artist D*Face, and Gary Baseman‘s brooding introspections of iconography, the exhibition is a testament to the creative influence of Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, Polly Pocket®, Masters of the Universe®, and many more.
Yumiko Kayukawa, Barbie Sensei
(acrylic on linen, 16 in x 20 in).
Mark Todd, Masters
(acrylic on wood, 18 in x 12 in).
Eric Joyner, Attack of the 150 ft. Barbie
(oil on canvas, 48 in x 31 in).
A visual remix of childhood memories where art meets play, and toys transcend their original form to become collectible, thought-provoking pieces, this group exhibition stands as both a celebration of Mattel’s legacy and a testament to the transformative power of play in shaping artistic expression.
Beyond the Main Gallery showcase, visitors can dive deeper into Mattel’s legacy at the Mattel Creations Space in Gallery 3. A curated installation of vibrant visuals and behind-the-scenes insights tracks the evolution of some of the brand’s most beloved toys, revealing the craftsmanship and storytelling that have kept them at the forefront of culture for eight decades.
On view until 19 April, this inspired exhibition will be accompanied by a lineup of special events at CHG, making this a must-see for art lovers, collectors, and anyone who has ever built a fantasy world with simply a set of action figures and an overactive imagination. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the art, or the cultural deep dive, Toys As Art, Art Inspired By Toys promises to be a dynamic and joy-fuelled celebration of play as a true artistic medium.
Nettie Wakefield, Beach Barbie
(graphite on paper, 23.5 in x 16.5 in).
Mark Ryden, Barbie with Meat
(assemblage, 11 in x 6 in).
Kii Arens, Heavy Mattel
(custom framed canvas print, 15 in x 20 in).
The London Police, He-Man transforms into a London Police Robot
(acrylic paint and indelible ink on Brussels linen, 23.75 in x23.75 in).
Dave Shuten, Skeletor.
Jasmine Becket-Griffith, Beautiful Monsters
(acrylic on panel, 12 in x 16 in).
Bennett Slater, The Madonna and Child
(oil on wood panel, 24 in x 18 in).
Yokoteen, Buddy
(oil on canvas, 28.75 in x 24 in).
Brandi Milne, Thrill Of It All
(acrylic on wood panel, 24 in x 18 in).
Soey Milk, The Pocket Medusa
(resin, oil, glass beads and polyvinyl chloride, 10.5 in x 9 in x 9 in).
