Robert Mapplethorpe (November 4, 1946 – March 9, 1989) was an American photographer known for his provocative and often controversial black-and-white photographs. His work explored themes such as sexuality, gender, race, and the human form. Mapplethorpe gained significant recognition for his technical precision and the bold subject matter of his images.Key points about Robert Mapplethorpe:1. **Early Life:** Robert Mapplethorpe was born in Floral Park, Queens, New York. He studied at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, where he initially focused on painting and sculpture before turning to photography.2. **Photographic Career:** Mapplethorpe's career as a photographer took off in the 1970s. He gained attention for his highly stylized and often controversial images, which encompassed portraits, still lifes, and nudes.3. **Subjects and Themes:** Mapplethorpe's work often featured explicit and homoerotic content, exploring the boundaries of censorship and societal norms. He also photographed flowers, celebrities, and various subcultures, showcasing a diverse range of subject matter.4. **Relationship with Patti Smith:** Mapplethorpe had a close relationship with singer and poet Patti Smith, whom he met in the late 1960s. They lived together in the Chelsea Hotel in New York City, and their friendship and artistic collaboration are documented in Smith's memoir, "Just Kids."5. **Exhibitions and Controversy:** Mapplethorpe's work was featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions. His solo exhibition "The Perfect Moment" in 1989 sparked significant controversy due to its explicit content. The show was at the center of debates on censorship and public funding for the arts.6. **Technique and Aesthetic:** Mapplethorpe was known for his meticulous approach to composition and lighting. His images often had a classical and formal aesthetic, drawing inspiration from art history, especially the classical sculpture and Renaissance paintings.7. **Portraiture:** Mapplethorpe created striking portraits of celebrities, artists, and members of the New York City social scene. His subjects included Andy Warhol, Deborah Harry, and Richard Gere, among others.8. **Floral Still Lifes:** Mapplethorpe's floral still lifes are celebrated for their beauty and precision. He used these images to explore themes of sensuality and the transient nature of life.9. **Legacy and Impact:** Despite the controversy surrounding his work, Mapplethorpe's influence on contemporary photography is significant. His exploration of taboo subjects and his commitment to artistic expression have left a lasting impact on the art world.10. **Illness and Death:** Robert Mapplethorpe died on March 9, 1989, at the age of 42, due to complications from AIDS. His death contributed to increased awareness of the AIDS epidemic, and his legacy endures through his contributions to the arts.11. **The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation:** After his death, the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation was established to promote photography, support medical research, and preserve the artist's legacy.Robert Mapplethorpe's work continues to be studied and exhibited worldwide, and he is remembered as a groundbreaking and controversial figure in the history of contemporary photography.
Measures 30 x 40.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.