Norma Jean is an original gouache Pop Art portrait by artist Brett Hodges of Quiet Corner Art Studio in Omaha, Nebraska.

For this portrait, I wanted to move beyond the familiar image of Marilyn Monroe as a manufactured Hollywood icon and return to something quieter and more human. I chose a reference that felt natural and unguarded, capturing a woman whose beauty did not need performance to be seen.

This painting is part of my Pop Art Icons series, created with bold black and white line work, a striking red accent, and an Art Deco inspired background. Painted with Winsor & Newton gouache on archival cotton paper and finished with Dorland’s Wax, the piece reflects my interest in contemporary portrait art, minimalist Pop Art, and the lasting presence of cultural icons in fine art.

Artist Brett Hodges at Quiet Corner Art Studio, Omaha, NE, original gouache Pop Art portrait titled Norma Jean, featuring Marilyn Monroe in black and white with red lips, red clothing, and an Art Deco inspired background.
Artist Brett Hodges at Quiet Corner Art Studio, Omaha, NE, close-up detail of Norma Jean showing Marilyn Monroe’s black and white facial features, red lips, and red clothing.
Artist Brett Hodges at Quiet Corner Art Studio, Omaha, NE, detail of the Norma Jean gouache portrait showing red garment areas, black line work, and the textured Dorland’s Wax finish.
Artist Brett Hodges at Quiet Corner Art Studio, Omaha, NE, close detail of Norma Jean showing Marilyn Monroe’s face, black and white contrast, red lips, and minimalist Pop Art style.

Artwork Details
Title: Norma Jean
Artwork Number: 851
Series: Pop Art Icons
Artist: Brett Hodges
Date: January 21, 2026
Medium: Winsor & Newton gouache
Surface: 100% archival cotton paper
Finish: Dorland’s Wax
Dimensions: 20 x 16 inches
Studio: Quiet Corner Art Studio, Omaha, Nebraska

Reference Photo Credit: Alfred Eisenstaedt, LIFE Magazine, 1953, attribution to the best of my knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Norma Jean by Brett Hodges?
Norma Jean is an original gouache Pop Art portrait of Marilyn Monroe by Omaha artist Brett Hodges.

What inspired the Norma Jean portrait?
The painting was inspired by a natural, unguarded reference image attributed to Alfred Eisenstaedt, focusing on Marilyn Monroe before the full weight of her public image became part of her identity.

What series is Norma Jean part of?
Norma Jean is part of the Pop Art Icons series, a collection of original gouache portraits focused on influential women and cultural icons.

What materials were used to create Norma Jean?
The painting was created with Winsor & Newton gouache on 100% archival cotton paper and finished with Dorland’s Wax.