A ferocious battle is brewing concerning the right of toy-giant Mattel to use the image of Frida Kahlo, a celebrated Mexican artist, in its new line of Barbies. The doll is one of three variations in Mattel’s “Inspiring Women” series. The others two dolls are Amelia Earhart, legendary aviator, and Katherine Johnson, acclaimed mathematician. Mattel’s website explains their inclusion of Kahlo in the trio: “The Barbie Inspiring Women Frida Kahlo doll celebrates the groundbreaking achievements, heroism and long-lasting contributions Frida made in the art world and for women. Her extraordinary life and art continue to influence and inspire others to follow their dreams and paint their own realities.” Though a seemingly well-intentioned homage to the artist, Kahlo’s grand-niece, Mara Romeo, has engaged in a public campaign decrying Mattel’s use of her ancestor’s image, alleging the toymaker “does not have the proper authorization to use the image of Frida Kahlo.” Mattel denies the allegation, saying it formed a “legally binding agreement” with the owner of Kahlo’s name and identity rights.
See Patrick J. McDonnell, Mattel Has a New Doll, Frida Kahlo Barbie. Descendants of the Artist Want It Off the Shelves, Los Angeles Times, March 9, 2018.
Special thanks to Joel C. Dobris (Professor of Law, UC Davis School of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.
