Artistry of Costume and Photography with Princess Diana and Wicked at Arlington Museum of Art

By Office of Communication

Posted on January 21, 2025, January 21, 2025

In its two newest exhibitions, the Arlington Museum of Art (AMA) debuts a collection of costumes from Wicked (2024) and tells the story of Princess Diana through an intimate new lens. 

Following the release of the highly anticipated film, the Wicked Threads: The Artistry of Costume in Oz exhibition celebrates the artistry of the costume design and twenty-one years of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked.

“Costuming and filmmaking are an exciting form of visual art and storytelling”, said Kendall Quirk, AMA Director of Exhibitions. “The AMA is always excited to showcase the work of these artists, especially in our free community gallery spaces. We hope to see emerging designers, filmmakers, and other visual artists come to enjoy these costumes from such a universal story.”

Wicked Threads: The Artistry of Costume in Oz will open in the Arlington Museum of Art community art space on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2025, and close Sunday, April 27, 2025. This exhibition is free to the public. 

The Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition will open to the public on January 17, 2025, and feature a collection of larger-than-life images taken by Diana’s trusted friend and Official Royal Photographer, the late Anwar Hussein, as well as his sons Samir and Zak. Each image will be accompanied by first-hand accounts of the stories behind the world-famous moments, told through an in-depth audio guide.

“Photography is one of the most powerful forms of storytelling,” said AMA President & CEO Chris Hightower, “This exhibition offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the life of one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century. Through the lens of these photographers, we see Princess Diana not just as a global figure but as a human being, navigating the complexities of fame, compassion, and her own sense of duty. It’s an opportunity to reflect on her legacy and the profound impact she had on the world.”

Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition will close Sunday, April 6, 2025. This exhibition requires a ticket for entry. Click here for ticketing information.