The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York celebrates Hello Kitty with its latest exhibit, Hello Cutie: Our Favorite Kitty!, opening on March 1st. This homage to the global icon promises to immerse visitors in the world of the beloved character, showcasing her evolution and enduring appeal.
The exhibit delves into the history of the anthropomorphized cat, a character that transcends generations and geographical boundaries. Visitors will be treated to a visual feast of Hello Kitty merchandise, artwork, and interactive displays, showcasing the ways in which she has permeated popular culture.
Hello Cutie: Our Favorite Kitty! examines how this character has become a symbol of friendship, kindness, and inclusivity. It explores the reasons behind her enduring popularity, highlighting her ability to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds. The retrospective explores Hello Kitty’s origins in Japan in 1974, created by Yuko Shimizu for Sanrio. Initially appearing on a vinyl coin purse, the simple illustration of the character quickly captured hearts. Michelle Parnett-Dwyer, curator at The Strong, shares, “For 50 years, Hello Kitty has charmed a global audience with her cuteness while also conveying messages about girlhood and play.”
Over the decades, Hello Kitty’s appeal has expanded exponentially. She has become a symbol of kawaii culture, a Japanese aesthetic that embraces cuteness. This phenomenon has spread worldwide, influencing fashion, design, and entertainment. The exhibit at The Strong showcases this global impact, demonstrating how Hello Kitty has become a sensation, bridging gaps and forging connections among people across diverse backgrounds.
To kick off the exhibit, The Strong will host a special Darling Day Tea Party event, giving fans the chance to meet Kitty White herself. This event promises to be a memorable experience for fans of all ages and an opportunity to celebrate the iconic character with other Hello Kitty enthusiasts. Visitors can then explore stuffed animals, fashion dolls, jewellery boxes, postage stamps, playing cards, and other Hello Kitty merchandise showcased in the second-floor exhibit.
The Strong National Museum of Play is known for its immersive exhibits that celebrate the power of play. Hello Cutie continues this tradition, offering a playful and engaging experience designed to appeal to both longtime fans and those new to the world of Hello Kitty.
Hello Cutie: Our Favorite Kitty! runs through December 2025.
