The Chicagoist will be launching later but in the meantime please enjoy our archives.

Behind Blythe at Rotofugi

By Rachelle Bowden in Arts & Entertainment on Sep 16, 2005 4:10PM

2005_09_blythe.jpg

Tomorrow night is the opening party for a new exhibit at Rogofugi, "Behind Blythe," a show that details the revival of Blythe dolls by Japan's Cross World Connections. The story is that in 1972 Kenner (remember them?) manufactured Blythe, a doll with eyes that changed when you pulled on a string. But it wasn't popular with kids and was pulled from the market after a year. Since then it's only been known by doll collectors, but now theyyy're baaaack. Like all really cool things, they're huge in Japan already and just now making their US debut.

The opening reception tomorrow is from 6pm - 10pm. You'll get to rub elbows CWC's creative producer, Junko Wong, and there will be free wine and soda. And music by DJ Tobias (he gets around). Limited edition Roxy Baby Blyth (pictured) will be available for purchase in limited numbers, along with a selection of Japan exclusive Blythe dolls and merchandise.

Also, CWC and Rotofugi will be auctioning a rare limited edition doll plus a few other customized dolls from Japan. 100% of the revenue will be contributed to the American Red Cross in an effort to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

If you can't make the opening, stop by Rotofugi anytime from September 17 through October 16, 2005 to see the Blythe collection.