My Obsession: Gage Spex’s Journey with Barbie Dolls

A Life of Creativity and Collection

Gage Spex, a vibrant figure in the nightlife scene, has led a life intertwined with creativity and collection. As a nightlife impresario, Spex co-founded the Spectrum, a D.I.Y. nightclub in Brooklyn, and later the Dreamhouse in Queens. These ventures weren’t just about the nightlife; they were extensions of a childhood passion for creating fantasy worlds. Spex’s journey with Barbie dolls began as a child, inspired by their parents, who were antique collectors, and evolved into a collection of over 200 dolls, each with its own story and significance.

Childhood Fantasies and the Spark of Creation

Spex’s fascination with Barbie dolls started in childhood, a time when imagination ran wild. Growing up in a home that resembled a Victorian museum, Spex spent hours constructing elaborate universes for their dolls. These weren’t just playthings; they were characters in sprawling, elaborate narratives. The Dreamhouse, later a nightclub, took its name from Mattel’s Barbie houses, symbolizing a place where fantasy and reality blend. This blend of creativity and storytelling would become a hallmark of Spex’s adult life.

The Dreamhouse: Where Fantasy Meets Reality

The Dreamhouse nightclub in Ridgewood, Queens, with its kitschy decor and oversized chandeliers, was more than a venue—it was a manifestation of Spex’s childhood fantasies. As a space for self-expression and transformation, it mirrored the endless possibilities Spex saw in their Barbie dolls. The nightclub became a sanctuary for those seeking escapism and community, much like the imaginative worlds Spex created as a child. This connection between past and present underscores the enduring influence of Spex’s early passions.

A Collection of Stories and Restorations

Spex’s collection of over 200 Barbie dolls is a testament to dedication and craftsmanship. Each doll, whether a rare find or a restoration project, holds a unique place in their heart. The journey of collecting involves flea markets, bargains, and even a serendipitous discovery in a Maine dump. Restoring damaged dolls in a makeshift "doll spa" reflects Spex’s commitment to giving new life to these toys, each one a story waiting to be told.

Diversity and Identity in the Doll Universe

Spex’s collection isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s deeply personal, reflecting their identity and heritage. Adopted from Colombia, Spex cherishes dolls of color, like the Julia dolls inspired by Diahann Carroll. These dolls represent the importance of diversity and representation, values Spex has carried into their work. They see each doll as a symbol of empowerment, embodying the idea that identity is fluid and self-defined.

Beyond Collecting: A Legacy of Self-Expression

In adulthood, Spex’s perspective on their collection has evolved, linking it to broader themes of identity and expression. The Dolls of the Underground parties at Judson Memorial Church celebrate human diversity, paralleling the infinite possibilities of Barbie dolls. Spex’s journey from childhood fantasies to adulthood reflections highlights the power of collecting as a form of art and activism. Their story is one of transformation, where each doll represents a piece of their soul, contributing to a larger narrative of self-expression and community.

This journey through Spex’s world of Barbie dolls reveals not just a collection, but a life shaped by creativity, identity, and the enduring allure of fantasy.