Life in Plastic: Barbie's Innovation and Icon Status When Barbie debuted in 1959, she was greeted by apprehensive and critical parents. But that did not stop Mattel from shifting the landscape of play and design. Over the following decades, Barbie went on to earn icon status. This presentation traces Barbie's innovation through the museum's collection of more than 3,000 Barbie-related artifacts. Presented by Michelle Parnett-Dwyer, Senior Curator The Strong's Museum Mondays for Seniors discount is offered every Monday.