"Toys as Art, Art Inspired by Toys” Mattel’s 80th Anniversary

Hikari has a new painting in “Toys as Art, Art Inspired by Toys” Mattel’s 80th Anniversary Group Exhibition, opening next weekend at Corey Helford Gallery in Los Angeles. There will be an opening reception for the show on Saturday, March 15th, 7:00pm to 11:00pm.

Marking the kick-off of the legendary toy company’s year-long 80th anniversary celebration, this special event will feature new and original, one-of-a-kind artwork, inspired by Mattel’s iconic brands, from over 80 visionary artists around the globe.

Hikari Shimoda
"Childhood Best Friend"
Oil on canvas
16.25 " x 12.75"  inches

To request a preview of the exhibition, please contact [email protected].

About her new painting, Hikari shares: “Barbie dolls have been loved by children all over the world for a long time. Some children who liked Barbie may have had lonely childhoods because they had no other friends. I also loved dolls as a child. I drew this with the theme of children all over the world and their best friend, Barbie.”

This exhibition stands as both a celebration of Mattel's legacy and a testament to the transformative power of play in shaping artistic expression. In addition, this joyous experience will also offer attendees an exclusive glimpse into the company’s history with the Mattel Creations Space in Gallery 3. Each wall will feature a vibrant, artistic, and engaging display of Mattel’s most popular brands, taking audiences on a journey of origin stories and creative processes behind their toys, as well as the artistry and craftsmanship of their present-day reimagined collectibles.

“Toys as Art, Art Inspired by Toys” Mattel’s 80th Anniversary Group Exhibition will be on view March 15th through April 19th, 2025 at:

Corey Helford Gallery
571 S Anderson St (Enter on Willow St)
Los Angeles, CA 90033
Tel: (310) 287-2340
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: noon to 6pm