GRACIE – Marilyn Monroe – a rare glimpse

The Bendigo Art Gallery has done it again. This time in collaboration with 20^th Century Fox, the gallery is presenting an exhibition on the life of Marilyn Monroe as its latest blockbuster.

Marilyn Monroe in a promotional image for ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’. The gold lamé dress features a plunging neckline and pleating and is featured in the exhibition

The exhibition features about 100 of the star’s costumes including 20 film costumes and 30 personal items from her wardrobe. It’s a real opportunity to get up close and personal to this glittering legend.

The costumes on exhibit are ideally displayed and include many of the famous dresses from her star studded career. Given that many pieces were the star’s favourites and worn often, they are in wonderful condition. You won’t be disappointed.

Marilyn’s famous dress scene in The Seven Year Itch in 1955 (Picture: AP)

Along with the fashion items, of particular interest are scripts with her handwritten notes. Her director’s chair, box camera and Mexican tiles from the kitchen of her home, all form part of the personal effects on display.

More private items like cosmetic jars and make up, including an Helena Rubenstein mascara, are quite poignant.

Take time to enjoy the excellent film footage and browse the photographs and posters. Marilyn’s outstanding ability to connect with the camera lens displays a magnetism unequalled.

To promote the exhibition, an eight metre sculpture ‘Forever Marilyn’ by Seward Johnson, has been set up in the city centre inspired by the famous scene from the 1955 film, ‘The Seven Year Itch’. It’s impossible to miss this. The park surrounds provide a great back drop.