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A new exhibition deconstructs the myth of Marilyn Monroe in the Marais

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The Editor

© Frank Powolny / Epoca / Le Bonbon

Until September 15, 2026, the Galerie de l'Instant presents a portrait of Marilyn Monroe with a clear goal: to trace her evolution through photography. Actress, pop culture icon, and above all, a global symbol of glamour, Marilyn will never cease to fascinate us. And this time, it’s through the lens of Sam Shaw that we discover her in a new light.

The fourth portrait of the Hollywood legend by the Galerie de l'Instant, the exhibition proudly tells what has never truly been said. It portrays a "radiant child" who breaks away from all the codes imposed on her by the film industry: a modern woman long before her time.


Between Norma and Marilyn

Meeting at the dawn of her career, the photographer Sam Shaw became a close friend of the actress, allowing him to capture rarely profound snapshots, captivating for those who view them. From the behind-the-scenes of film shoots, to intimate portraits, and everyday moments at Roxbury, the home of Arthur Miller – Marilyn Monroe's third husband – these images trace the evolution of a woman who was sometimes misunderstood.

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With photos taken between 1954 and 1958, we see Marilyn Monroe in more private contexts than usual. Fewer frills, no posing for the camera, no promotions. One could almost say that this exhibition isn't really dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, but rather to Norma Jeane: her real name. It reveals the actress in a daily environment, allowing us to grasp who Marilyn truly is, rather than what she represents.


More than an icon, a role model

When we think of Marilyn Monroe, most of us picture that image in the white dress with the skirt flying above a subway grate. A gorgeous blonde with a captivating gaze and an almost naive spontaneity. And it’s exactly this image that the actress always wanted to shake off.

By embodying a model of ultra-femininity, Marilyn captivated the entire world, while her many struggles remained in the shadows for far too long. Yet, she managed to make a difference for women, especially in the film industry: by calling out problematic men, by refusing roles that reduced her to a mere object, and even by starting her own production studio to gain independence. A unique portrait waiting to be discovered now!

Marilyn. Portrait of a Radiant Woman
Gallery of the Moment 
46, rue de Poitou — 3rd floor
From June 1 to September 15 
Monday from 2 PM to 7 PM 
Tuesday to Saturday from 11 AM to 7 PM 
Sunday from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM 
More info