What happens when the world of fashion dolls collides with queer culture? Long before mainstream representation, these pocket-sized figures carried bold, subversive stories within their plastic frames. From trailblazing toys of the '70s to accidental gay icons of the '90s, it's time to uncover the untold story of how queer history found its place on the toy shelf.

Explore the fascinating lineage of queer dolls, from groundbreaking 1970s creations to modern design collaborations, and how these miniature muses became icons of queer culture and creativity. Additionally, the talk will include examples of fashion doll history as it relates to Aotearoa. Looking at the iconic ‘90s television show Serial Stuff to trans-activist Carmen Rupe and how the term “doll” is connected to transness.

The talk looks at the intersection of queerness, fashion, and storytelling, and how fashion dolls have served as unexpected vessels of queer identity and expression. While also looking at contemporary doll discourse, tracing how the doll world has evolved — or not — in embracing LGBTQ+ voices and representation.

Led by fashion historian and queer doll researcher Frank New. The event will include a mini-exhibition of fashion dolls from Frank’s personal collection.

Location and accessibility TBC