Robert Mapplethorpe American, 1946-1989

Overview
Robert Mapplethorpe (1946–1989) was an American photographer known for his controversial and provocative works that explored themes of sexuality, gender, race, and identity. Mapplethorpe’s work, often described as bold, formal, and highly stylized, is recognized for pushing boundaries in the fine art world, particularly through his exploration of taboo subjects and his unflinching representation of the human body. Mapplethorpe died of complications from AIDS in 1989 at the age of 42. His passing brought an additional layer of significance to his work, as many of his photographs, particularly his self-portraits, have been viewed in the context of the AIDS epidemic that swept through the gay community during the 1980s and 1990s.
Works
  • Robert Mapplethorpe, Italian Vogue , 1984
    Italian Vogue , 1984
  • Robert Mapplethorpe, Lisa Lyon, 1981
    Lisa Lyon, 1981
  • Robert Mapplethorpe, Untitled (Terry), 1974
    Untitled (Terry), 1974
Exhibitions