Photos by Daphne Chandler
On June 1st, the 100th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s birthday, Genesis House in the Meatpacking District honored the icon with a new immersive exhibit, Manifesting Marilyn: The Making of an Icon tour. Stars including actress and director Chloë Sevigny were in attendance for the premiere.
The exhibit is now open to the public and will remain in place until August 2nd. What makes Manifesting Marilyn so special is the focus on her work as an intellect. not just a bombshell.
A Walk Through
Different sections of the exhibit tell Monroe’s story, beginning with a room papered with reimagined headlines about the star’s resilience. Rare, archival images reframed storyline around her own perspective. Guests can read about everything from Monroe’s upbringing to the founding of her own production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions Inc., without the oversexualization that usually accompanies her.
“The Headline Room – The Rewrite”
Moving further into the space, you step into a recreation of Monroe’s Office and Library. These spaces showcase the actress’s intellectual drive with books displayed from her own private collection. There is also an “Answer the Phone” segment where members listen to recordings from one of Monroe’s last interviews. These personal archives transport you to Monroe’s mind as a businesswoman and strategist.
“Marilyn’s Office – Mind of the Strategist”
Next up is Monroe’s Vanity, a reimagining of the space used to transform Monroe into the dazzling figure we remember. Personal items such as Chanel No. 5 perfume and hairbrushes scatter the desk, framed on either side by wardrobe artifacts. A wool suit contrasts with Monroe’s soft, green Pucci top to show how glamour and beauty were used tools in her life.
The final piece is ‘The Transformation’, a cinematic installation using vocals and images to emphasize the magnitude of Monroe’s presence.
“The Screen Experience – The Transformation”
The immersive element for which Genesis House is known is the culmination of Manifesting Marilyn, celebrating 100 years of life and honoring more than just her beauty. The journey from Norma Jeane Baker to Marilyn Monroe took courage and strength and couldn’t have been accomplished had the star not believed in herself.