Whitney’s sister-in-law and former manager Pat Houston said, “We have picked the things that people will find the most interesting and, in many cases, bring back fun memories.” Houston further said, “We are really very overjoyed that we are here today to represent and be a part of such a wonderful and splendid career of such a beautiful and talented woman.”
The highlights of the exhibits included private letters from Clive Davis, a tea cup from which Houston drank before each performance, and a beaded gown she wore at the 1994 Grammy Awards ceremony. The Whitney’s brother Gary and sister-in-law Donna, who worked with the Los Angeles Grammy Museum to curate the exhibition, also attended the tribute.
Bobbi Kristina Brown, Whitney’s daughter, and Bobby Brown, Whitney’s ex-husband did not attend the ceremony.
The exhibition did not mention the personal history of drug abuse or turbulent life of the singer. Whitney Houston had accidentally drowned in her hotel bathtub at the age of 48 from heart disease and cocaine.
According to the Grammy Museum officials the exhibit was put together following questions by fans as to the absence of any homage to the star following her death. The exhibition would be there until February 2013.
“Sparkle,” Whitney’s final film, is scheduled to be released this Friday.