The photographic portraits are chosen from the archives of the John Kobal Foundation, and include iconic stars such as James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, Rita Hayworth, Marlon Brando and Jean Harlow.
With over 22,000 black and white original negatives from this ultra-glamorous Hollywood era, John Kobal was a film historian who brought the Hollywood studio photographers back into the spotlight, writing over 30 books on film and film photography.
The exhibit has been on display since early July, and runs until 23 October 2011, so it was about time I went to see it. The gallery runs a 'late shift' on Thursdays and Fridays, remaining open until 9pm, instead of the usual 6pm closing time. The show was punctuated with music last Thursday, with Lady Kamikaze djing in the gallery, so it was the perfect opportunity to get dolled up and go to take a peak at the portraits.
Some of my favourite photos included a very striking portrait of a young Nina Mae McKinney, Rita Hayworth in the film Gilda (love that movie!), Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing, Gary Cooper looking rugged with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth, and Marilyn Monroe sitting on the pavement fixing her make-up.
Whilst the exhibition itself is not huge, there are some beautiful photos, and at £6 entry, it's worth going to have a look. We weren't allowed to take photos in the exhibition, so keep an eye out for the photos I mentioned above!
London, glamour, and the love of my life. It doesn't get much better than that. I found the exhibit to be very interesting based on its historical content and artistic flair. Thank you for the invitation.
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