It's Marilyn Monroe as you've never seen her before - or certainly not on this scale! Chicago residents and visitors alike have been startled by the appearance of a gigantic full-colour statue of the much-loved star in Pioneer Court just off the city's Magnificent Mile. Modelled on the famous scene from The Seven Year Itch where Marilyn's skirt blows up as she stands on a subway grating, the statue has few fans among art critics and has starly divided the public.
Sculpted by New Jersey based artist Seward Johnson, the statue has variously been described as 'sexist', 'cheap titillation' and 'creepy schlock', yet fans of the star have been flocing to have their photo taken with it. Naturally, given the pose, part of the appeal is giant size visible underwear, but admirers have also welcomed the spirit of fun which they feel it represents. Not a permanent exhibit, the statue will move on in just under a year, so curious fans should catch it while they can.
