The kickoff for two new exhibitions — Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe and Marilyn in Canada — exploring the legend behind one of Hollywood’s most influential stars takes place Saturday, Feb. 19 with special programs running all weekend long.
“Although it has been fifty years since the death of Marilyn Monroe, worldwide interest in her life and career has sustained,” McMichael chief curator Katerina Atanassova said in a news release. “Our two exhibitions examine how the art world has been motivated by the myth and legend of this iconic actress.”
Life as a Legend, an international touring exhibition making its final stop in Vaughan, features paintings, photographs and prints by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Robert Indiana, Eduardo Paolozzi, Richard Avedon and Henri Cartier-Bresson.
Marilyn in Canada provides a glimpse into Ms Monroe’s experiences while filming in Canada as well as her popularity among Canadian artists including Shelley Niro, John Vachon and George S. Zimbel.
During opening weekend, the gallery will feature movie theatre lobby décor, screenings of Ms Monroe’s films plus a special Marilyn prix-fixe menu at the Seven Restaurant.
You can also join McMichael educators for a series of 20-minute tours of Marilyn’s Fragments and Fabulous 1950s, check out documentary films chronicling Ms Monroe’s life and listen to music by DJ Goin’ Steady.
On Sunday, Feb. 20 those who dress up like Ms. Monroe will get in for free and have a chance to strut their stuff on the “red carpet” in the Grand Hall at 1 p.m.
Silkscreen workshops for the whole family will take place Monday, Feb. 21 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is at 10365 Islington Ave. just north of Major Mackenzie Drive.
For more information visit www.mcmichael.com
