Prosthetic Barbie

20" x 20"

acrylic/mixed on mat board

SOLD

Collaborative painting by Dana Ellyn & Matt Sesow.

Inspired by Mattel’s recent release of the first Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes, this painting responds with a blend of personal reflection and a social critique. 

The painting, Prosthetic Barbie, directly engages with questions of representation. For Matt, who lost his hand as a child and wore a prosthetic hook and then a prosthetic hand before ultimately  moving on from prosthetics altogether, the announcement struck a nerve. Dana adds her touch by giving the girl a look of discomfort, not able to fully personally relate on this issue.