DOYLESTOWN, Pa. – With fanfare befitting a princess, the official media conference announcing the James A. Michener Art Museum as the only U.S. destination for “From Philadelphia to Monaco: Grace Kelly- Beyond the Icon” was held Thursday at the Hotel Monaco in the heart of Grace Kelly’s hometown, Philadelphia.

Details of the James A. Michener Art Museum’s presentation were unveiled and the costumes and designer garb to be shown were highlighted, as well as the personal letters and memorabilia including film clips and archival documents collected throughout Grace Kelly’s life. Visitors to the exhibition will be immersed in the world of Grace Kelly and discover the life and legacy of the Oscar-winning American actress and Princess of Monaco.

“The opportunity to bring together a comprehensive exhibition that focuses on the depth and breadth of Grace Kelly’s life is an important acknowledgment of her impact on so many facets of the 20th century,” said Lisa Tremper Hanover, director and CEO of the James A. Michener Art Museum. “Throughout the years, interest in Grace—her compassion, her radiance, her dignity and her individuality—has never waned. Her hometown of Philadelphia is eager to honor this spirit.”

A panel of Grace Kelly experts was on hand to discuss everything Grace including Tremper Hanover, who provided an overview of the exhibition and items that will be displayed.

Kristina Haugland, associate curator of costume and textiles at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and author of Grace Kelly: Icon of Style to Royal Bride and Grace Kelly Style, addressed Grace Kelly’s iconic style and provided a perspective on her influence on the world of fashion.

The highlight of the day was the concluding special message from His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco. He spoke of how delighted he is to have the exhibition at the James A. Michener Art Museum, not far from where his mother grew up. “Those of us who were fortunate enough to know my mother—her family and friends—knew her to be a genuine, warm and loving woman—a woman who always put her family first. I hope that through experiencing this exhibition you will be able to glimpse the real Grace Kelly—the woman beyond he icon, my mother.” His passion and respect for his mother’s legacy were the impetus for the North American tour for this exhibition. The exhibition is produced by the Grimaldi Forum Monaco and the McCord Museum, based on a display at the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.

For more information, visit www.michenerartmuseum.org or call 215-340-9800.

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