toys

“Barbie” and “Ken” figurines on display in Berlin. Photo courtesy of 360b via Shutterstock/RNS.

Barbie has had a number of careers in her 55 years — flight attendant, veterinarian, astronaut, even president. Her latest role, however, is raising eyebrows.

Italy’s Catholic bishops are furious about controversial artistic depictions of the popular Barbie and Ken dolls as the Virgin Mary and a crucified Jesus Christ and other saints.

Two Argentinian artists, Marianela Perelli and Pool Paolini, produced 33 dolls of various religious figures for a show named “Barbie, The Plastic Religion,” which opens in Buenos Aires on Oct. 11.

SIR, an Italian website backed by the Italian bishops conference, denounced the controversial toys in an editorial, which asks: ” What is the difference between provocation and bad taste?”

Brandon Hook 9-24-2012
Photographs by David Chambon / Colossal

Dragonflies covered in dew. Photographs by David Chambon / Colossal

The biggest prank ever, some insects covered in dew, an iPhone that eliminates scrolling, and James Franco's latest musical endeavor. Oh yea, and this kid and his dad sent their toy train into space. Nothing like good 'ole afternoon fun with Dad.