Baby Barbara

A Powerful Educational Resource for the Society

“I recently completed a Master’s degree in Prosthetic Effects at Falmouth University, and for my most recent project, I made a silicone baby with mechanical breathing function (known as baby Barbara), as a rendition/recreation of the effects of Thalidomide for the babies exposed in utero. The MA I did partnered with Neill Gorton, (Millennium Effects), who created baby Susan made for Call the Midwife.”

Tasha Pearce

The piece demonstrates not only Tasha’s technical skill in sculpting, mould-making and silicone casting, but also her thoughtful approach to storytelling through prosthetic art. By incorporating subtle mechanical movement to simulate breathing, she brought an added layer of realism that encourages viewers to engage with the history and human impact of Thalidomide in a meaningful way.

As part of her MA studies, Tasha partnered with acclaimed prosthetics designer Neill Gorton. His company, Millennium FX, created “Baby Susan” for the BBC television series Call the Midwife. That model was later donated to the Society and has since played an important role in education and awareness work.

The Society is therefore especially delighted to accept Tasha’s very kind offer of donating Baby Barbara. The addition of this remarkable model will further enhance the Society’s ability to educate future generations, support public understanding, and preserve the history and lived experiences of those affected by Thalidomide.

The Thalidomide Society would like to give special thanks to Tasha Pearce for donating Baby Barbara to the Society.