Marion Pike was an American artist born on May 28, 1913, in Missouri. She was a painter best known for her portraits of notable figures, including celebrities, politicians, and royalty. Pike studied art at the Kansas City Art Institute and later continued her education at the Art Students League in New York City.
In the 1940s, Pike moved to Los Angeles, where she gained recognition for her vibrant and expressive portrait paintings. Her work caught the attention of Hollywood celebrities, and she became known for capturing the essence and personality of her subjects in her portraits. Pike’s clientele included stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Walt Disney, Judy Garland, and others.
One of Pike’s most famous portraits is her striking depiction of Marilyn Monroe, which she painted in 1953. The portrait, featuring Monroe in a red dress against a black background, became iconic and is considered one of the definitive images of the legendary actress.
Throughout her career, Pike’s work was exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and she received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to the art world. Marion Pike’s artistic legacy continues to be celebrated for her unique style and ability to capture the essence of her subjects in her portraits. She passed away on February 1, 1997, leaving behind a remarkable body of work that continues to inspire and captivate audiences.
