A Marilyn Monroe Exhibition Is Coming To London

If there’s one star with a legacy stretching long beyond her life, it’s Marilyn Monroe. Though the blonde bombshell actor and model died way back in 1962 – tragically aged only 36 years old – her impact on fashion and culture continues today. It is this continued fascination with Monroe that is explored in a touring exhibition, simply titled MARILYN – The Exhibition. Coming to London next month, here’s exactly what to expect.

MARILYN – The Exhibition: When, Where & How To Visit

Marilyn Monroe is the subject of this exhibition, featuring more than 250 historical objects related to Hollywood’s timeless luminary. Hoping to offer a glimpse into the star’s private world, MARILYN – The Exhibition will be the first of its kind when it opens in the UK in October 2024.

Norma Jeane Baker aka. Marilyn Monroe in 1946 at an early photo shoot with photographer Joseph Jasgur (© All copyrights reserved by Ted Stampfer Collection)

What Is On Display?

Everything from love letters to satin robes, timeless outfits to vintage shoes, and make-up to accessories will be on display at MARILYN – The Exhibition, with more than 250 remarkable historical objects on display in the exhibition, offering a unique, unparalleled glimpse into the personal life of the luminary.

Everything is from the private collection of Ted Stampfer, the world’s largest collector of Monroe’s objects of this kind. ‘I’m delighted that some of the most fascinating artefacts from my personal collection will be on display in London for the first time,’ Stampfer says. ‘Much has been written and discussed about Marilyn over the decades but no one can say with absolute certainty what the truth is. What we can consider, in addition to her film and photographic legacy, are her personal material possessions. In 1962, after her death, her items were stored and preserved, almost like they were in a time capsule, for nearly four decades! It’s wonderful to be able to share these unique pieces which can give us a real insight into her life, allowing us today to get closer to the real Marilyn Monroe and her true identity.’

The exhibition will trace the superstar’s early days as Norma Jeane Baker, her transformation into the legendary Marilyn, her extraordinary career, and her tragic untimely death. Perfect for British visitors, artefacts include memorabilia from Monroe’s film production ventures in London in 1956 and her historic meeting with Queen Elizabeth II. Visitors can also expect to see the make-up and beauty accessories Monroe used to craft her distinctive image – still recognisable today. Fashion lovers will enjoy seeing outfits made famous by her films and photoshoots, while handwritten notes, childhood drawings, letters, family photographs, books, scripts and props from her films will all shine a light on the Hollywood star’s personal life.

Marilyn Monroe’s personal black turtleneck sweater and white capri pants by JAX, worn in various private and public moments between 1953-1956 (Photo shows a room installation, © all copyrights reserved by Ted Stampfer Collection)

When?

MARILYN – The Exhibition will be on display in London from 18 October 2024.

Where?

MARILYN – The Exhibition will be on display at Arches London Bridge (8 Bermondsey St, London SE1 2ER), a new exhibition and cultural events venue spanning 11,000 sq ft and five interconnected cavernous railway arches. Arches first opened in 2023 with the Direct From Graceland: Elvis exhibition.

‘It is a privilege to host MARILYN – The Exhibition at Arches London Bridge,’ says Liz Koravos, Managing Director of Arches London Bridge. ‘As the original bombshell Hollywood stereotype, we are lifting the curtain for a glimpse of the real Marilyn behind the icon. As one of the first women carefully placed on the pedestal of celebrity by the adoring public and simultaneously torn down, Marilyn’s life, career and death has become legend. London is thrilled to receive the curated private collection of Ted Stampfer which brings to life the woman behind the brand we all know so well.’

Marilyn Monroe’s last telephone book, used by Monroe and her secretary in the years 1958-1962 (© All copyrights reserved by Ted Stampfer Collection)

How To Get Tickets

Tickets will go on sale at 10am on Wednesday 18 September 2024 at marilynlondonbridge.co.uk

On the website, there is a newsletter sign up form to be notified when tickets go on sale.

Tickets will start from £21.90 per person. A White Glove Experience will also be on offer: an exclusive VIP package including a guided tour of the exhibition and a rare object handling experience of belongings owned by Marilyn. More details will be available upon booking, but included in the ticket is also a £20 merchandise voucher and a complimentary drink.