Marilyn Monroe is one of Hollywood’s most beloved icons. Her effortless beauty, charm, and timeless appeal have left an indelible mark on pop culture. In Palm Springs, a statue of the legendary actress stands as a larger-than-life tribute to her captivating presence—immortalizing the allure of the blonde bombshell in one of the most scenic and culturally rich areas of California.
The 26’ statue weighs 34,000 lbs. and glorifies one of Marilyn’s most iconic film moments. Marilyn is shown in a white dress from the 1955 film “Seven Year Itch.” While standing on a subway grate in New York City a gust of air lifts her skirt and has become one of the most recognized photos in film history.
The statue was created by Seward Johnson known for trompe-l’œil painted bronze statues. He was a grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, the co-founder of Johnson & Johnson and has many other larger than life works scattered in Museums, private collections and in public displays. He is best known for his realistic depictions of real people in life sized figures.
Palm Springs was once the haven for the Hollywood film stars. The weather, stunning mountain backdrop and proximity to Los Angeles made Palm Springs the go-to destination for celebrities looking for fun and a change of scenery. Monroe was a regular in Palm Springs, particularly in the 1950s, when she was married to Joe DiMaggio of baseball fame. Although she never owned property here, she would rent the Elizabeth Taylor Estate occasionally. This statue is a reminder to all of the significance of Palm Springs to the film stars of the past.
As you may already be aware the statue was recently moved from in front of the Palm Springs Art Museum to a plot in nearby Downtown Park. Before the move it was estimated that around 90,000 people a month visited the site. Remarkably, the new location is only about 100 feet from its original spot. This impressive and controversial artwork has become a must-see attraction for residents and tourists alike. The statue captures the essence of the star’s magnetic charm and allure, and serves as a testament to her lasting impact on American popular culture. Tourists come to have their photo taken beneath the statue and applaud the scale of the sculpture.
Marilyn’s impact on modern culture cannot be overstated. She became a sex symbol, a symbol of glamour and of the complexities of fame. Her image in Palm Springs is a celebration of her life, her career and her lasting impact on the world.
