"Marilyn in Art" is here! Author Roger Taylor's sequel to his first "Marilyn in Art" book is available now! Mr. Taylor has included some of the artwork from his original book, and also incorporated more recent portraits of this most captivating, beautiful and constantly fascinating woman.



Thursday 1st June 2006 was a very special day, it would have been Marilyn’s 80th birthday. It was picked for that reason as the launch date for a new book entitled ‘Marilyn in Art’ by Roger Taylor. I was lucky enough to receive a ticket for the book launch along with my fellow staffer, Shar. The launch was held in the evening at The House of St Barnabas, in Soho, London and the venue was just breathtaking. Apart from the beautiful architecture, it was decorated in a most tasteful and elegant style, befitting the evening ahead, with candles and gold draped up the staircase. On arrival, we were asked to sign a guest book, which was a lovely touch, and I imagine a record of the evening for the author to look back on.

As we ascended the staircase, we came into the most fabulous room, full of selected original artworks from the book. It was really captivating to be able to see the originals, in their full glory, the artists are so gifted, and it felt very special to view their work.

On a table at the other side of the room was the book itself, along with a selection of the featured art reproduced on high quality postcards. The book is really beautiful and so lovingly produced, I could not wait to get my hands on a copy!

I was then approached by the author himself, Roger Taylor, having spoken to him before by e-mail. He is a really charming, friendly guy, and made us feel so totally at ease. He also introduced us to all the artists who were there for the launch, some having come from America and even further a field. Everyone was so gracious and affable and the event was filled with joy, just as it should be on Marilyn’s birthday!

There was plenty to eat and drink, waiters and waitresses on hand with a selection of drinks and canapés, which I have to say, were delectable! The room was really starting to fill up by that time, there were so many people there, it just added to the whole ambience of joy.

Suzie Kennedy was there to perform, with her husband, who joined our little group and seemed to take refuge with our long suffering partners! As Suzie performed ‘Happy Birthday’ to Marilyn we all clapped and cheered, which was followed by a speech from Roger, in which he said some wonderful things about Marilyn, and then the cutting of a most beautiful cake, decorated with the book cover.

Also in attendance was a male impersonator, who had the most amazing outfits – he changed three times during the course of the night, the last time utilising a wig so huge he had to bend down to get under the doorframe!

After posing for photographs, Roger and the artists took time out to sign people’s books, which was really kind, nothing was too much trouble for them at all. Some of the artists were wearing their work, in extraordinary jackets painted with Marilyn, Elvis, et al, they were just unbelievable!

The whole night was so enjoyable, the atmosphere was one of real love and respect for Marilyn. It was so delightful to be able to share this with the many others gathered there, and of course with Shar, Suzie and our respective husbands! I really enjoyed myself and I feel honoured to have been able to attend and what an 80th for our wonderful girl! A big thank you to Roger and friends, for arranging this and inviting us!

Becka Staley

IM Junior Staff








Included a few photos of Roger Taylor's Marilyn in Art book launch. The two beautiful works of art belong to artist and author (Hometown Girl) Eric Woodard and are featured in Marilyn in Art. Eric is also a member of IM's Assisting Staff. You can learn more about Marilyn in Art and Hometown Girl on IM's 'Mall of Marilyn' page via the "Back" button.