GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, in Cleveland, will explore the enduring legacy and influence of Motown Records‘ premier recording artists with the unveiling of Legends Of Motown: Celebrating The Supremes on March 3.
“We are honored to showcase some of Mary Wilson’s treasured memorabilia from her time with The Supremes. Celebrating the history of Mississippi artists is a necessary and important part of GRAMMY Museum Mississippi,” said Executive Director, Emily Havens.
Curated by the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles, the exhibit will offer visitors a unique look at the life and career of one of the most successful American singing groups of the ’60s, the Supremes, through rare artifacts from the private collection of founding member Ms. Mary Wilson.
On display through Septeber 3, 2018, the exhibit features rare photographs from the personal collection of Mary Wilson; concert posters; tour books, fan memorabilia; and an assortment of performance gowns, including:
- “Primette Pristine” gowns worn in 1961, one of the earliest sets purchased by the Supremes when they were still known as the Primettes
- “White De Mink” outfit worn on ABC’s “The Hollywood Palace” in 1966
- “Turquoise Freeze” dresses worn during a 1967 appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show”
- “Red Hot” gown worn by Ms. Wilson on “The Ed Sullivan Show” in 1970 for the debut of the new Supremes lineup featuring Cindy Birdsong and Jean Terrell
“The Mary Wilson ‘Supreme’ gown collection is a dream come true for me,” said Ms. Wilson. “This collection is a gift that I give to all of those who have ever loved music and glamour. As you look at all of these wonderful treasures, please be reminded that three little black girls’ dared to dream, and made their dreams come true. Thank you, Motown, and the thousands of fans all over the world.”
In conjunction with the exhibit opening, Ms. Wilson and Tena Clark will be at the Museum for two programs March 9. Women in Music: Mary Wilson and Tena Clark education program will begin at 11 am. An Evening with Mary Wilson will begin at 7 pm and include a conversation moderated by Tena Clark. 
