About this Event
In collaboration with ACC Art Books and Corsair, we are delighted to welcome Gail Crowther, Michael Arnold and Terry Newman in conversation with Carrie Kania here at Hatchards this evening to celebrate the centenary of Marilyn Monroe's birth.
The books featured by the panel this evening:
Marilyn and her Books by Gail Crowther
Marilyn Monroe: The Official Centenary Publication contributed to by Louie Conway
Marilyn Monroe: An Appreciation by Eve Arnold
Marilyn Monroe Style by Terry Newman
Marilyn and her Books by Gail Crowther
Timed to the 100th birthday of Marilyn Monroe, and with the full cooperation of the Monroe estate, comes an investigation into the literary life of the Hollywood icon and actress, from the author of Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz and Dorothy Parker in Hollywood.
Through her deep research, Crowther delves into Marilyn's personal collection of books and recounts some of these meetings, like the time Monroe shared an apartment with Shelley Winters in West Hollywood, where they entertained Dylan Thomas and Christopher Isherwood for drinks (probably several drinks), after which Monroe arranged for Thomas to meet his childhood hero, Charlie Chaplin. Or when Life magazine arranged for Monroe to be interviewed by Dame Edith Sitwell at the Sunset Tower Hotel, and Sitwell was both charmed and blown away by Monroe's intelligence.
In 2026, for her centenary, this book showcases Marilyn Monroe, the reader. Because at the end of her life, it was not her jewels or her furs, her shoes, or dresses that she cared about. It was her books.
Marilyn Monroe: The Official Centenary Publication
Published in association with the Marilyn Monroe Estate, this stunning book brings together specially curated sections of work by the best photographers who collaborated with Monroe during her lifetime, including some of the greatest names in the art of photography.
André de Dienes, Joseph Jasgur and Bernard of Hollywood unveil early images of a young Norma Jeane; John Florea and Philippe Halsman showcase stunning publicity shots of an aspiring actress; Eve Arnold, Elliott Erwitt, Bruce Davidson and Henri Cartier-Bresson capture Marilyn on the sets of some of her most famous films; Cecil Beaton and Richard Avedon portray the actress’s alluring beauty; and the candid photography of Alfred Eisenstaedt, Sam Shaw, George Barris and Milton Greene reveal another side to the Hollywood icon. The book ends with Bert Stern’s ‘Last Sitting’ along with recently rediscovered images of a radiant and smiling Monroe taken from a photo shoot for Life magazine by Allan Grant, originally published two days before the star’s death.
Marilyn Monroe: An Appreciation by Eve Arnold
Including newly discovered and restored photographs in colour and in black and white, alongside insightful commentary, Eve Arnold takes us on a photographic journey of Monroe’s life. A detailed biography in Arnold’s own words allows a rare glimpse into the stories behind the photographs and her unique relationship with Monroe.
As these two female artists come together in the creation of this stunning photographic collection, an important historical testimonial has been actualised, showing women striving in a male-oriented world and succeeding in reaching the top of their game. This edition features a new introduction by Michael Arnold, Eve’s grandson and one of the trustees of the Arnold estate and archive.
Marilyn Monroe Style by Terry Newman
Marilyn Monroe Style celebrates Marilyn’s impact on fashion by revealing the influence of her many iconic looks. Her wardrobe encompassed sensual femininity as well as low-key minimalism. Outfits span from shimmering showpieces such as the Jean Louis gown worn to serenade JFK on his birthday, to Pucci slacks and cats-eye spectacles.
Born Norma Jeane Mortensen, whenever she ‘became’ Marilyn, she mesmerised onlookers with showstopping outfits that helped make her a legend, yet throughout her life the clothes she wore represented many ways of being a woman. This book tells the story of Marilyn’s life through clothes and is essential reading for Marilyn Monroe fans everywhere.
It promises to be an absolutely fascinating evening - do come along if you can!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Hatchards, 187 Piccadilly, London, United Kingdom
GBP 5.00 to GBP 10.00
