The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is set to honor the enchanting allure of Old Hollywood with a remarkable exhibition titled "Face Value: Celebrity Press Photography." This showcase, scheduled to open on June 28, 2025, and continue until June 21, 2026, will feature an impressive collection of iconic studio portraits. These images capture the essence of legendary figures such as Clara Bow, Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn, Barbara Stanwyck, Elizabeth Taylor, Harry Belafonte, and many others.

A Timeless Tribute to Hollywood Legends

Reviving Hollywood’s Forgotten Archives

The upcoming MoMA exhibition marks a significant milestone in the world of film history. It represents the first major display of Hollywood studio portraiture from the Museum Department of Film’s film stills archive since 1993. Showcasing over 200 works spanning from 1921 to 1996, this event offers a comprehensive glimpse into the evolution of celebrity photography. Each photograph not only immortalizes its subject but also serves as a testament to the era's artistic and technical advancements.In addition to the aforementioned stars, the exhibition features portraits of Joan Crawford, Louis Armstrong, Carole Lombard, Louise Brooks, Mia Farrow, Dennis Hopper, Lena Horne, Buster Keaton, Anna May Wong, W.C. Fields, Hattie McDaniel, Lupe Velez, Mae West, Bela Lugosi, Carmen Miranda, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Spencer Tracy, and Oprah Winfrey. Historical personalities like Jackie Robinson, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Amelia Earhart, Ruby Berkley, and Eleanor Roosevelt further enrich the collection. This eclectic mix of celebrities and historical icons provides a fascinating narrative about the intersection of fame and society during different periods.

Decoding the Illusion of Fame

According to curator Ron Magliozzi, “Face Value” invites viewers to delve beyond the veneer of glamour. The exhibit aims to expose the intricate mechanisms through which celebrity personas were crafted and exploited. As noted in the official MoMA description, the display explores how these images were meticulously altered for public consumption using hands-on editing techniques that predate modern digital tools. This aspect of the exhibition is particularly intriguing as it highlights the manual processes involved in image manipulation. Techniques such as silhouetting, in-painting, masking, sectioning, and collage were employed to create the perfect illusion of perfection. By juxtaposing candid, unedited photographs with their polished counterparts, the exhibition provides a unique perspective on the art and science of celebrity branding.

Artistry Behind the Lens

With contributions from more than 58 photographers, the exhibition showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and approaches. Each photographer brought their distinct vision to the task of capturing the essence of their subjects. Some focused on highlighting the natural beauty and charisma of the stars, while others experimented with avant-garde techniques to push the boundaries of traditional portraiture.The Titus and Morita Galleries will serve as the venue for this captivating exhibition. Organized by curator Ron Magliozzi, along with Katie Trainor, the Film Collections Manager, and Cara Shatzman, the Collection Specialist for the Department of Film, the event promises to be a celebration of both the individuals immortalized in the photographs and the talented artists behind them. The generous support of CHANEL makes this ambitious project possible.

Echoes of Influence in Contemporary Culture

The enduring legacy of stars featured in “Face Value,” such as Clara Bow and Buster Keaton, continues to resonate in today’s cultural landscape. For instance, Taylor Swift draws inspiration from the media whirlwind surrounding Bow, incorporating it into her creative work. Meanwhile, Keaton's story is set to be retold in a biopic series starring Rami Malek, ensuring that his influence remains relevant to new generations.These examples underscore the timeless nature of the themes explored in the exhibition. They demonstrate how the allure and mystique of Old Hollywood continue to captivate audiences worldwide, bridging the gap between past and present. As visitors journey through the halls of the MoMA galleries, they will undoubtedly gain a deeper appreciation for the complex interplay between celebrity culture and societal norms throughout history.