BARBIE COUTURE

A journey featuring over 200 Barbie dolls that chronicles the transformation of a global icon into a contemporary muse, spanning the worlds of fashion, art, design, and culture. Galleria Cavour hosts BARBIE COUTURE, an exhibition curated by Alessandra Lepri - drawing from the private collection of Paola Felli - and conceived and organized by Contemporary Concept under the artistic direction of Gaetano La Mantia.

The project brings a selection of more than 200 dolls from Paola Felli’s collection to the heart of Bologna; amassed over thirty years of research, the collection includes unique pieces, OOAK (One-Of-A-Kind) creations, couture interpretations by leading industry designers, and special or limited editions from around the globe.

The initiative is part of a cultural project championed by Gioia Martini, owner of Galleria Cavour, aimed at reinforcing the gallery’s role as a meeting point for fashion, art, and contemporary culture. A special section features a mini-exhibition of handmade hats created by Alessandra Maregatti, a designer for Doria 1905 - featuring artisanal, Barbie-sized miniatures inspired by iconic styles from the historic brand based in Salento.

It is against this backdrop that Barbie Couture establishes a natural dialogue between the icon and its host venue: an exhibition dedicated to fashion’s capacity to transform into language, representation, and culture.