Weird World: artist says Barbie is a lesbian - doll manufacturer pissed

Toy manufacturer Mattel is reportedly threatening to sue a Brazilian artist for portraying Barbie as a lesbian. Karin Schwarz's exhibition features pictures of Barbie in compromising situations, reports the Jornal de Sao Paulo newspaper. Mattel has given the artist 24 hours to close down the exhibiton or they say they will take legal action. But Ms Schwarz says she will not back down: "Barbie is exploited by Mattel. She wears a bikini, she shows off her belly, has big breasts, and even has a boyfriend," she said. The exhibition, entitled Amazing Girls, is on show at a bar in the city of Curitiba. A Mattel spokesperson said: "Barbie is a very proper lady and she is not happy about being portrayed as something that she isn't. We are going to sue and we hope that this teaches people a lesson. Also, Barbie is 46 years old, she should be respected!"