Barbie Stylist Adds Unique Touch to Iconic Dolls

TaiwanPlus News

A Taiwanese collector is transforming his huge array of Barbie dolls into one-of-a-kind creations with his artistic skills.

Transcript

00:00After years of collecting and modifying, Barbie enthusiast Tangtang is improving on a classic design.

00:07I like Barbie dolls because of their beauty.

00:11They can show various styles, such as cute, sexy, seductive, intelligent and elegant.

00:18Tangtang's Barbie collection, which contains over a thousand dolls from different eras,

00:23started when his mother bought him his first one as a child.

00:27This is my first doll.

00:29It's a 1997 golden symphony.

00:33Since then, he's been collecting them from all over the world.

00:39Over the years, Tangtang's gained a reputation as a Barbie stylist

00:43and has made a cottage industry out of giving customers dolls glamorous makeovers,

00:48improving their makeup, jewellery and hairstyles.

00:52He says the trick is not overdoing it.

00:56I think every doll has its original characteristics.

01:01We just need to preserve the essence, remove the rust,

01:04and change the bad parts of the doll.

01:06We don't need to redo it.

01:08It's not my intention to change the doll completely.

01:11From his studio in Jilong in northern Taiwan,

01:14he handles around 30 cases a month from customers all over the world.

01:19It's a lot trickier than he makes it look.

01:22I think the most difficult part of Barbie makeover is the makeup.

01:26It's small, so you need to be more careful.

01:31If you make a mistake, it's a mistake.

01:35Like every artist, Tangtang can point to his favourite work,

01:39one he thinks reflects the best of the medium, his collection and interests.

01:44I currently like two styles from different eras.

01:47The first one is from the 90s.

01:50As you can see, it's a perfect big wave style.

01:55Why is it my favourite?

01:59I think this style best reflects Barbie's femininity

02:03and shows my skills.

02:06The other style is from the 50s and 60s.

02:10It's the rich lady style from the 50s.

02:13With confidence and pride in his work,

02:16Tangtang is determined to push the boundaries of his craft.

02:20He dreams of one day holding his own exhibition

02:23to share his passion for Barbies

02:26and inspire others with his unique artistic talent.

02:29Barbie dolls have taught me to appreciate each person's beauty

02:36and to appreciate each thing's uniqueness.

02:42For Tangtang,

02:43the dolls have become more than just a source of income or a collection.

02:47They hold a deeper, personal meaning

02:50shaped by years of dedication and creativity.

02:53Fu Hua Hong and Sainichi for Taiwan Plus.

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