Recently I had the opportunity to get across to Bendigo in Central Victoria to see the Marilyn Monroe exhibition. This was an opportunity to get up close to the personal effects of one of the twentieth centuries most famous pop culture icon…

Bendigo Art Gallery has worked with Twentieth Century Fox and Private Collectors to bring this exhibition to the regional town. Featuring over 100 items, this exhibition brings together artefacts, clothing and other objects either owned by Marilyn or worn by her in various films and from her personal wardrobe. Also included in the exhibition is studio portraits, wardrobe test photos, lobby cards and film posters.

Bendigo has also brought a supersized Marilyn Monroe statue to town – standing 8 metres tall it takes pride of place at Bendigo’s busiest intersection directly opposite the fountain. The statue is modelled on the famous scene in The Seven Year Itch where Marilyn’s dress billows up as she stands over a subway grate. This is the first time this statue has been displayed outside of the USA – It is a ‘selfie’ magnet! Some will love it, some will hate it – but that is public art isn’t it?

The weekend we visited was busy and with only a week remaining before the exhibition closes tickets will be limited. Having been a long term fan this was worth the effort to get across to Bendigo. Marilyn would have turned 90 this year and we can only wonder if she hadn’t died young in 1962 would she have attracted the attention and degree of immortality she has today?

When? The exhibition closes Sunday 10 July 2016

Where? Bendigo Art Gallery

Bendigo is easily accessible from Melbourne by both train and car.