What's Happening?
The South Burlington Public Library is currently showcasing a selection of Barbies from the collection of Peter Harrigan in its Display Case throughout October. This particular exhibit focuses on Barbies created in the likeness of real people and characters
from books or movies. The library has paired these dolls with corresponding books and DVDs from its own collection, which patrons can check out. Peter Harrigan, a lifelong pop culture enthusiast, has been collecting fashion dolls since 1993 and is known for releasing his dolls from their packaging to create miniature scenes with props, furniture, clothing, and backdrops. He previously spent 40 years creating college theatre productions, with 35 of those years at Saint Michael’s College in Colchester. Harrigan also founded a local club for adult fashion doll collectors called 'Champlain Valley of the Dolls.'
Why It's Important?
This exhibit is important as it highlights the cultural significance of Barbie dolls beyond mere toys, showcasing them as collectible art and representations of pop culture. For the South Burlington community, it offers a unique educational and entertainment opportunity, connecting a popular cultural icon with literature and film. The display encourages engagement with the library's resources by linking the dolls to books and DVDs, potentially drawing new visitors and fostering a deeper appreciation for storytelling in various forms. Furthermore, Peter Harrigan's dedication to his collection and his background in theatre production underscore the artistic and creative aspects of doll collecting, challenging conventional perceptions of the hobby and promoting it as a legitimate form of artistic expression and historical preservation.
What's Next?
The exhibit will continue throughout October at the South Burlington Public Library. Patrons interested in the displayed Barbies can ask a librarian to retrieve the associated reading and watching materials from the Display Case for checkout. Peter Harrigan encourages adult fashion doll collectors to join his local club, 'Champlain Valley of the Dolls,' by contacting him via email. His Instagram account, @play_house_with_peter, and YouTube channel, which features an award-winning video by Eva Sollberger titled 'Stuck in Vermont – Barbie,' offer additional insights into his collection and creative process. The success of this exhibit may inspire future collaborations between local collectors and the library, potentially leading to more diverse cultural displays and community engagement events.
Beyond the Headlines
This exhibit delves into the broader cultural impact of Barbie, illustrating how the doll has evolved to reflect and influence societal perceptions of identity, celebrity, and storytelling. By featuring Barbies modeled after real people and fictional characters, the display subtly explores themes of representation and the power of popular culture to shape our understanding of the world. Peter Harrigan's passion for creating miniature worlds with his dolls also speaks to the human desire for creative expression and the therapeutic benefits of hobbies. The formation of the 'Champlain Valley of the Dolls' club signifies a growing community of adult collectors, highlighting the social and communal aspects of shared interests. This initiative by the South Burlington Public Library not only entertains but also educates, fostering a dialogue about art, culture, and the enduring legacy of iconic figures like Barbie.
