“Vast Exhibit Features 80 Artists Celebrating 80 Years of Mattel Toy Legacy and Impact”
Toys As Art: Honoring Mattel’s 80-Year Heritage Through Innovation
Mattel, a leading name in the toy industry, marks its 80th anniversary with a distinctive artistic homage that reinforces its enduring impact on creativity and imagination. The Corey Helford Gallery in Los Angeles hosts the lively exhibition titled Toys As Art, Art Inspired by Toys: Mattel’s 80th Anniversary Group Exhibition, featuring 80 artists who present original works inspired by the iconic characters and franchises of the toy giant.
A Celebration of Whimsical Creativity
For many years, Mattel’s toys have not only provided happiness to children worldwide but have also nurtured the creative paths of numerous aspiring artists. From the timeless Barbie dolls to the speedy Hot Wheels cars, from the cherished early toys by Fisher-Price to the enchanting world of Monster High, Mattel’s offerings have transcended mere playthings, becoming sources of inspiration for artistic creation.
The exhibition urges both established and new artists to reinterpret classic toys and their universes through their individual artistic viewpoints. The styles vary from surrealism to pop art, utilizing mediums such as acrylics, sculptures, mixed media, and beyond. The outcome is a diverse, imaginative landscape that merges childhood reminiscence with sophisticated visual narratives.
Showcased Artists and Their Perspectives
Gary Baseman, a veteran in pop and contemporary art and a former collaborator with Mattel, re-envisions his iconic figures in “Swell” (acrylic on canvas, 48” x 72”), infusing a distinctively Mattel-inspired flair that marries familiar whimsy with dynamic, emotive aesthetics. Likewise, Mark Ryden, known as the “Godfather of Pop Surrealism,” presents a celestial reinterpretation of Barbie as a fragile, nearly mythic sculpture.
Other noteworthy works include Paul Frank’s playful signature style, Brandi Milne’s homage to the original 1959 Barbie, and Sylvia Ji’s enchantingly beautiful depiction of Draculaura from Monster High. Internationally recognized talents like Junko Mizuno (“Polly Pocket Forever”) and Hikari Shimoda (“Childhood Best Friend”) contribute global elements to the rich visual showcase.
This varied lineup of contributors guarantees that each piece resonates on a personal level, feeling inspired, and yet immediately recognizable to anyone who has ever interacted with a Mattel toy.
Revamping Classics in Bright New Expressions
From the iconic red-and-white Toy Chatter Telephone by Fisher-Price to the modern appeal of Astronaut Barbie—reimagined by artist Kelogsloops—the exhibition spans the breadth of Mattel’s legacy. The quirky portrayal of Skeletor, the stylized representations of Monster High characters like Skelita, and nostalgic references to He-Man and Hot Wheels invite attendees to dive into a realm where art and play seamlessly blend.
With Barbie commemorating her 66th anniversary in 2025, she remains a central theme throughout, highlighting her lasting status as both a cultural emblem and an ever-evolving canvas. The integration of newer franchises like Monster High alongside classic playsets such as Polly Pocket underscores Mattel’s multigenerational appeal and its expanding cultural impact.
Perspectives from the Artists
“The best toys/creations in the biz!!” declares artist Brandi Milne, echoing sentiments shared by many creatives involved in the exhibit. These artists credit Mattel for not only igniting their early imaginations but for continuing to motivate them into their adult lives.
Lisa McKnight, Chief Brand Officer at Mattel, states: “Since its inception by Ruth and Elliott Handler, Mattel has been a company of creations, driven by artists, designers, and innovators. This partnership with Corey Helford Gallery presents an exciting opportunity for everyone to celebrate the unique blend of art, toys, and imagination.”
An Event Decades in the Making
The exhibition opens on March 15 and continues through April 19, 2025, at Corey Helford Gallery’s main venue, located at 571 S. Anderson Street, #1, Los Angeles. An accompanying exhibition in Gallery 3 unveils behind-the-scenes stories and creative journeys from some of Mattel’s most legendary toy lines—providing collectors, enthusiasts, and curious visitors with an enriched understanding of the interplay between play and art over the years.
Simultaneously, artist Ben Ashton’s showcase Or You Could Panic, featuring ornate and sculptural portraits, beautifully complements the inventive ethos of the main exhibition.
Arrange Your Visit
– Exhibition Title: Toys As Art, Art Inspired by Toys: Mattel’s 80th Anniversary Group Exhibition
– Dates: March 15 – April 19, 2025
– Location: Corey Helford Gallery, 571 S. Anderson Street #1, Los Angeles, CA
– Admission: Free
For more details about the exhibition