Marilyn Monroe Centennial: Artists Who Made Her an Icon
Marilyn Monroe, born June 1, 1926, remains a pivotal figure in 20th-century visual culture. On her centennial, her image continues to inspire artists and photographers worldwide. Andy Warhol's 1962 Marilyn Diptych, with its vivid colors and serial repetition, turned her into a Pop Art symbol of contemporary celebrity. In 1957, Richard Avedon captured her introspective side in a series of portraits where she impersonated past film stars; his most memorable shots came when she stopped performing, revealing a melancholic, absorbed expression. Months before her death, Monroe posed for Bert Stern for Vogue in the legendary The Last Sitting. Cecil Beaton portrayed her with sophisticated elegance, highlighting an almost aristocratic allure. Eve Arnold, building a trusting relationship, documented more intimate, everyday aspects of Monroe's life.
Key facts
- Marilyn Monroe was born on June 1, 1926.
- Andy Warhol created the Marilyn Diptych in 1962.
- Richard Avedon photographed Monroe in 1957.
- Avedon's portraits captured Monroe's melancholic side.
- Bert Stern shot The Last Sitting for Vogue.
- Cecil Beaton portrayed Monroe with sophisticated elegance.
- Eve Arnold documented Monroe's intimate and everyday moments.
- Monroe died shortly after The Last Sitting.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Vogue
Sources
- Artslife —