What's Happening?
A new exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London is showcasing the work of American photojournalist Eve Arnold, focusing on Marilyn Monroe's agency in her own image-making. The exhibition features a 1955 photograph of Monroe reading James Joyce's
'Ulysses,' captured by Arnold. This image, along with others, reveals a lesser-known side of Monroe as an avid reader with a personal library of over 400 books. The exhibition aims to highlight Monroe's control over her still images, contrasting with the film industry's influence over her moving images. Arnold's naturalistic style, often shot outside the studio, presents Monroe in a more candid and intellectual light, challenging the 'dumb blonde' stereotype.
Why It's Important?
The exhibition sheds light on Monroe's efforts to control her public image, a significant aspect of her legacy often overshadowed by her Hollywood persona. By focusing on her intellectual pursuits and personal agency, the exhibition challenges prevailing stereotypes and offers a more nuanced understanding of Monroe. This perspective is crucial in re-evaluating the roles of women in media and the power dynamics involved in celebrity image-making. It also highlights the importance of female photographers like Eve Arnold in capturing and preserving these alternative narratives.
