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Initially, when the Academy museum proposed creating an exhibition showcasing the work of designers Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer, the pair found it amusing, assuming it was a prank.

Approximately two years and six months have passed, and on May 23rd, “Barbie to Anna Karenina: The Cinematic Worlds of Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer” will debut, offering a rich, interactive exploration of their joint creations. On the same night, the Academy Museum is scheduled to present Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” with a post-screening Q&A featuring both Katie Spencer and Sarah Greenwood.

The exhibit showcases various items such as full-scale sets, concept art, miniature replicas, sketches, and a section titled “Blank Space,” which demonstrates the growth of their production office and the transformation of ideas into reality. This partnership spans over two and a half decades, earning them Oscar nominations for movies like “Pride & Prejudice,” “Atonement,” “Sherlock Holmes,” “Anna Karenina,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Darkest Hour,” and “Barbie.” With numerous possibilities for the display, museum curator Michelle Puetz selected four films to highlight: “Anna Karenina,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Darkest Hour,” and “Barbie.

Prior to the general unveiling of the exhibition, Spencer expressed, “It’s truly an immense honor to be recognized in such a manner for our work in production design and set decoration.

As a movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled about the upcoming exhibit that promises to shed light on the intricate art of production design and set decoration. I can’t wait for people to grasp what we, the creators, bring to life behind-the-scenes. Frankly, many don’t realize our role; they’re clueless, making it all the more fascinating for me!

Among the highlights, Spencer and Greenwood are excited for visitors to see “Blank Space.”

Spencer clarified, “We were keen on having our office located there. It serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that anything can be achieved. Starting with a clean slate, things gradually take shape and transform.

Displayed are Flipboards showcasing concept art and references from the movie “Barbie”, as well as a wall filled with artwork from the film for visitors to browse. By offering a visual peek into their workspace, Spencer aims to dispel any fear of the unfamiliar. With multiple models presented, Greenwood clarified that real models offer tangibility for directors, producers, and other team members during a project. “People mark their ideas on it, or they say, ‘This should be removed’, and they’ll physically take it off.

Here’s a preview of the exhibit, which runs from May 23 to Oct. 25.

Marble Table – “Beauty and the Beast”

Over a thousand team members joined forces with Greenwood and Spencer in crafting and adorning the sets for the live-action adaptation of “Beauty and the Beast.” In partnership with Swarovski, Greenwood and Spencer constructed the movie’s crystal bell jar. A skilled artist was contracted to intricately carve the design of the enchanted forest ice onto the jar, a key element in the film’s storyline.

Rendering of Mrs. Potts and her son Chip – “Beauty and the Beast”

The dimensions of the magical artifacts within Beast’s castle presented difficulties for Spencer and Greenwood. A key question was how small everyday items like a teacup and teapot might coexist with Beast, and more crucially, navigate through his vast dwelling. One idea was that Chip could utilize his saucer as a makeshift skateboard to traverse the space, while Mrs. Potts, maintaining her graceful demeanor, would glide along on a tea trolley.

Weird Barbie’s 3-D Heist Map – “Barbie”

The “Barbie” area of the exhibition offers guests a glimpse into the intricate details that Greenwood and Spencer meticulously crafted for the movie. A whimsical reference to their film “Anna Karenina,” titled “Barbie Karenina,” can be found among the displays, serving as a delightful hidden gem.

In the exhibit, there’s a showcased 3-D blueprint by an unusual Barbie character (portrayed by Kate McKinnon). This plan played a crucial role in the Barbies’ strategy as they aimed to reclaim Barbieland from the control of the Kens.

Barbie’s Chevrolet Corvette

One of the engaging experiences at the exhibit includes a custom-made, hot-pink electric version of the 1956 Chevrolet Corvette C1, famously known as Barbie’s Chevrolet. Visitors can climb aboard and strike a pose for snapshots in this unique photo opportunity.

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2025-05-22 22:23