The JMUSEO in Jesolo is preparing to welcome one of the most anticipated cultural events of the winter season: the exhibition “Frida and Marilyn. Intersecting destinies. A journey through Photography and Art”, scheduled from November 29, 2026 to May 2, 2027.
The exhibition is conceived and organized by the Municipality of Jesolo, curated by Vincenzo Sanfo, Roberto Bernè, and Tanino Bonifacio, with project management by Romina Franchin. It explores the "missed encounter" and the extraordinary affinities between two of the most influential icons of the twentieth century: Frida Kahlo and Marilyn Monroe.
At the center of the project is the profound dialogue between the actress symbolizing Hollywood glamour and the Mexican painter who is an icon of surrealism and female strength. Despite coming from distant worlds, Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) and Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) shared surprising affinities and reflective biographical traits.
The exhibition narrates their public and private lives, focusing on their relationships with some of the most influential and controversial figures of their time: from Frida's partner, Diego Rivera, known for his continued infidelities, to Marilyn's ties with Joe DiMaggio, Arthur Miller, and even John F. Kennedy himself. The behind-the-scenes photographs depicting Marilyn alongside colleagues such as Laurence Olivier, Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis, Groucho Marx, and Cary Grant are juxtaposed with shots dedicated to personalities close to Frida, from Rivera to Trotsky, offering a vivid picture of the richness of their biographical paths.
Seemingly distant, the Hollywood cinema diva and the painter symbolizing Mexican surrealism actually share a biographical and emotional journey with surprising parallels. Both passed away prematurely, lived complex and painful romantic relationships, and faced the drama of unfinished pregnancies. In different contexts, they also had to fight against the stereotypes of their time to assert their intellectual and artistic identities.
Moreover, there will be a connection with the territory: for the very first time, the JMUSEO will include the great sculptural tradition of the city within its exhibition path. Thanks to the agreement with David Ducharme, Artistic Director of the Jesolo Sand Nativity Scene, 4 small sand sculptures will be created entirely dedicated to Frida and Marilyn, sculpted by two historic pillars of the sculptor team, the esteemed Dutch artists Susanne Ruseler and Hanneke Supply. Their presence perfectly aligns with the theme of the exhibition, centered on the expressive power, resilience, and creativity of the female universe.
Starting from November 20, 2026, visitors will be able to witness the creation of the sculptures live within the museum's halls.
