1 / 7Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait — National Portrait Gallery Exhibition Catalogue
Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait is the National Portrait Gallery’s exhibition catalogue, bringing together photographs and artworks that trace Monroe’s influence on visual culture. Its 256 pages include contributions by Lena Dunham, Bonnie Greer and Griselda Pollock, offering perspectives on her public image and legacy.
At a glance
- Pairs familiar and rarely seen photographs with artworks made during Monroe’s lifetime and afterwards.
- Covers Monroe’s collaborations with photographers including Eve Arnold and Richard Avedon, alongside Pop art interpretations by Pauline Boty and Andy Warhol.
- Includes contributions from Lena Dunham, Bonnie Greer and Griselda Pollock.
- Published in association with the Marilyn Monroe estate to accompany the National Portrait Gallery exhibition.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Combines photography and artworks, offering more than a photographic biography alone.
- The contributors bring perspectives from acting, writing, cultural commentary and feminist art history.
- The 256-page format gives room for a broad visual and cultural overview.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | National Portrait Gallery |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 28 May 2026 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 256 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1855148404 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1855148406 |
| Weight listed | 1.68 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 24 x 2.7 x 29 cm |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in Marilyn Monroe’s image, cultural legacy and influence on photography and art.
- Visitors to the National Portrait Gallery exhibition who want its accompanying catalogue.
- Art and film readers looking for a visual account with contributions from several writers.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a conventional chronological biography, since the supplied description focuses on visual culture and Monroe’s public image.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
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Aggregate ratings are strongly positive, with most ratings in the five-star category. Without written customer feedback, those scores do not show what readers liked or identify specific concerns. Buyers interested in the catalogue’s stated combination of images and critical perspectives may find the rating pattern encouraging, but it cannot establish how well the book suits a particular reader.
Frequently asked questions
What does the catalogue cover?
It explores Monroe’s impact on photography, art and film through photographs, artworks and essays about her image and cultural significance.
Who contributes essays or perspectives?
The listing names actor, director and writer Lena Dunham, playwright and cultural commentator Bonnie Greer, and feminist art historian Griselda Pollock.
How long is the book?
The listed print length is 256 pages.
Is this an exhibition catalogue?
Yes. The listing describes it as the official catalogue accompanying the National Portrait Gallery exhibition.
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