The Barbie Collection of Gage Spex: A Journey Through Identity and Creativity
1. The Spark of Obsession
Gage Spex, a performance artist and nightlife impresario, has found a unique intersection of art and identity through their extensive collection of Barbie dolls. This fascination began in childhood, with Barbie serving as more than just a toy—it was a canvas for creativity and self-expression. Spex’s journey with Barbie dolls started with a simple reward for potty training, evolving into a collection that now exceeds 200 dolls. This collection, meticulously displayed in their Bushwick apartment, is a testament to a lifelong passion that bridges personal history and cultural significance.
2. Building a Childhood Fantasy
Spex’s childhood in western Massachusetts was a world of Victorian antiquity, where flea markets with parents became adventures of discovery. These outings laid the foundation for a collection that would grow into a vibrant, sprawling universe. Each Barbie doll was part of a constructed fantasy, a mansion or nightclub, reflecting the imaginative playground of their youth. This early creativity was not just play but a precursor to the transformative spaces Spex would later create as an adult.
3. A Collection as Identity
The Barbie collection transcends mere hobby; it is a mirror of Spex’s journey of self-discovery. Adopted from Colombia, Spex found resonance in the diversity of the dolls, particularly the Julia dolls, inspired by Diahann Carroll’s character in the 1960s. These dolls, among the first to represent women of color, hold profound significance for Spex, symbolizing the beauty of inclusivity and the importance of representation. Each doll tells a story of identity and empowerment, reflecting Spex’s own narrative of cultural connection and personal growth.
4. From Childhood to Adulthood
As Spex entered adulthood, their passion evolved, blending childhood imagination with adult creativity. The Dreamhouse venue in Queens became a real-world manifestation of the fantastical Barbie worlds of their youth. A space of vibrant colors and kitschy decor, it was a sanctuary of self-expression, hosting events that celebrated the ‘living dolls’ of the transgender community. This transformation underscores how Spex’s love for Barbie dolls influenced their career, creating spaces where identity and creativity could flourish.
5. The Dreamhouse Venue: A Real-World Fantasy
The Dreamhouse, named after the iconic Barbie toy, was more than a venue; it was a living artwork. Inspired by the carnivalesque interiors of the banquet hall, Spex crafted a space where art and nightlife converged. This evolution from childhood play to adult creation highlights the enduring influence of Barbie in Spex’s life, serving as a metaphor for the transformative power of imagination and the freedom to redefine oneself.
6. The Doll Collection Today
Today, Spex’s collection is a vibrant shrine, each doll telling a story of history, identity, and rescue. From a $10 flea market find to a salvaged vintage gem, each piece reflects Spex’s dedication and the stories behind them—a doll spa where broken toys find new life. This collection, a blend of nostalgia and modernity, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Barbie and the boundless creativity she inspires. Spex’s journey through dolls is a story of self-discovery, creativity, and the power of play, showing how passion can shape a life and a legacy.
