Premier

Labor Government Brings Marilyn Monroe To Bendigo

09 October 2015

A stunning eight-metre sculpture of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe will headline the latest blockbuster exhibition secured for Victoria.

Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Bendigo Art Gallery Director Karen Quinlan to announce ‘Bendigo Art Gallery and Twentieth Century Fox present Marilyn Monroe’ will be the fourth instalment of the renowned Bendigo International Collections series.

Set to open in March 2016, the exhibition will celebrate of one of the world’s most recognised figures of the golden age of cinema. It will follow the life of Monroe, from her early years as an aspiring actress to international stardom – and then her untimely death. It promises to be one of the most comprehensive collections of costumes, photographs and personal items belonging to the Hollywood legend ever compiled.

The showstopper will be the Seward Johnson-designed sculpture that captures Monroe in her classic pose from the 1955 Billy Wilder film, The Seven-Year Itch. Other prized drawcards include her iconic William Travilla gown, worn for the Gentlemen Prefer Blondes portrait, and personal effects such as the actress’ address book and director’s chair.

There’s no place like Bendigo for the biggest and best art and cultural events – the figures prove it. The Grace Kelly: Style Icon exhibition drew more than 152,000 visitors, smashing Australia’s regional gallery attendance records.

Marilyn Monroe will attract thousands of visitors to Bendigo, and many will combine their visit with a Central Victorian holiday. The exhibition will be worth approximately $11 million to the Greater Bendigo region.

Major events keep regional economies healthy and Victoria strong – and that means jobs and growth. The Andrews Labor Government’s 2015-16 Victorian Budget includes an additional $80 million for the biggest and best events, while the new Visit Victoria will sell our state’s strengths all over the world like never before.

Quotes attributable to Premier of Victoria Daniel Andrews

“There is no better place for this fantastic exhibition of a Hollywood icon than the great Bendigo Art Gallery.”

“This is going to be a showstopper. It will bring visitors in their thousands from all over Australia and the world, and will showcase Bendigo’s strengths as a leader for the big events.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan

“Central Victorians love their art and culture and visitors from all over the world love the Bendigo Art Gallery. We’re delivering bigger and better events, so that it continues to thrive.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“We’re growing our calendar of events in regional Victoria, because they mean more jobs and stronger communities.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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