Eve Arnold

Mastering both black-and-white and colour photography allowed Arnold to switch between the two depending on which best suited her subject. Relying on connection and authenticity rather than studios and lighting, Eve Arnold adopted a more natural approach. She made it her mission to capture the story behind the photograph, intently observing, yet respecting the privacy of her subjects.

The genuine connection Arnold had with her subjects allowed her access to some of their most personal, vulnerable moments, giving her photographs a sense of truthfulness and reality.

"The purists would say that colour is commerce and black and white is art – an argument that has not abated with the years. As for me, I am greedy and, not wanting to limit myself, will use whatever tool is at hand. So, depending upon the dictates of the mood and the moment, I will change from colour to black and white and back again, or will manage both simultaneously.” - Eve Arnold

Eve Arnold’s prolific career led her to photograph some of the most important figures of the 20th century, such as Yves Saint Laurent and Malcolm X, and work for major publications including Esquire and Harper’s Bazaar. Arnold’s photographs of Marlene Dietrich caught the eye of Marilyn Monroe, who on the cusp of stardom, requested her own photographs be taken.

Arnold’s photographs of Marilyn Monroe are some of her best-known works. Six sessions took place over a 10-year period, and the pair developed a deep sense of trust and companionship throughout their decade long friendship. Their longest shoot, two months in length, took place whilst Monroe was filming The Misfits. Fascinated by Monroe’s natural ability in front of a camera, Arnold captured the actress in a way no one else had, in her quiet and vulnerable moments. Arnold’s candid images exhibit the often-unseen side of Monroe, showing the softness and innocence of her authentic self.

Monroe and Arnold worked together until the actress’s tragic death in 1962, and the images captured on the set of The Misfits are among the last ever taken of the iconic actress.