Published 4 October 2022

The costumes, designed by four-time Oscar-winning Australian designer Catherine Martin, and worn by Austin Butler as Elvis, Olivia DeJonge as Priscilla Presley and by David Wenham as Hank Snow will be on view in the NFSA’s blockbuster exhibition, which launched in January and will be open throughout 2023.

They will be supported by accessories, props, images and AV content from the 2022 film exploring the life and music of Elvis Presley.

The items on display form part of a wider acquisition by the NFSA of a significant number of costumes and props from the film for long-term preservation.

‘I’m so happy that these costumes can live on at the NFSA and contribute to Australia’s audiovisual heritage,’ said Catherine Martin. ‘It’s wonderful to think that work made in Australia can stay in Australia and become a reference point for future filmmakers and designers.’

‘Catherine Martin’s influence on costume and production design is incomparable,’ said Patrick McIntyre, NFSA’s CEO. ‘She is without a doubt one of Australia’s most significant screen creatives right now, and we are so thrilled that she has helped ensure that these extraordinary items from Elvis will enter the national collection. And what a way to give Australians & Hollywood a mid-cycle refresh.’ 

In order to install the Elvis items, the Australians & Hollywood exhibition will close for a three-week period from October 17-November 7. This will allow for secure installation of valuable assets, and changes to other exhibition displays which need to be rested in accordance with NFSA conservation practices.  

Running exclusively in Canberra, Australians & Hollywood features previously unseen costumes, props, documents and footage from the NFSA collection, as well as prized loans from the private collections of some of Australia’s most celebrated actors, cinematographers and filmmakers. From directors Cate Shortland, Rachel Perkins and Warwick Thornton to actors Nicole Kidman, Deborah Mailman and Margot Robbie, Australians & Hollywood explores the work of some of Australia’s most celebrated film talent, while also showcasing the skill and ingenuity of the award-winning craftspeople who have made a profound impact on the global screen industry.

Australians & Hollywood is on at the NFSA, McCoy Circuit, Acton, Canberra

Exhibition closure: Monday 17 October – Monday 7 November inclusive

Exhibition re-opening: Tuesday 8 November. Open daily from 10am-4pm with special extended hours on Fridays from 10am-8pm. Tickets are available to book or on entry.

Images are available here.

Media enquiries: Louise Alley - louise.alley@nfsa.gov.au - 0422 348 652