A controversial art exhibit featuring Barbie fashion dolls as religious figures such as the Virgin Mary and her boyfriend Ken as a crucified Jesus Christ has been cancelled amid complaints and threats from angry Christians.

The exhibit called "Barbie: The Plastic Religion," by Emiliano Paolini and Marianela Perelli, had been scheduled to open today in Buenos Aires.

But the artists - who say they've received threats from various parts of the world - said they decided to call off the show, so as not to offend people.

The 33 pieces in the collection include Barbie dolls dressed as the Virgin of Guadalupe, patron saint of Mexico, and Joan of Arc, as well as a blue Kali, the extra-armed Hindu goddess of destruction. Along with Christ on the cross, Ken is also portrayed as Buddha, St. Sebastian and the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

"We have received threats from various parts of the world," Paolini told the Associated Press. "It's crazy ... they have misinterpreted our work."