Robert Mapplethorpe

Biography of Robert Mapplethorpe

Born in the Floral Park neighborhood of Queens, New York, USA, Robert Michael Mapplethorpe graduated from Martin Van Buren High School in 1963. Pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, he majored in Graphic Arts but left in 1969 before completing his degree.

From 1967 to 1972, Mapplethorpe shared his life and artistic endeavors with his girlfriend, Patti Smith. During this period, they collaborated on creative projects. Mapplethorpe's initial foray into photography occurred in the late 1960s or early 1970s, using a Polaroid camera. In addition to his photographic pursuits, he designed and sold jewelry.

In 1972, Mapplethorpe crossed paths with art curator Sam Wagstaff, who became his mentor, lover, patron, and lifelong companion. This relationship marked a turning point as Wagstaff introduced Mapplethorpe to a Hasselblad medium-format camera in the mid-1970s, sparking his serious exploration of photography.

The year 1977 saw Mapplethorpe participating in Documenta 6 in Kassel, West Germany, and by 1978, the Robert Miller Gallery in New York City exclusively represented his work.

From 1977 to 1980, Mapplethorpe was romantically involved with writer and Drummer editor Jack Fritscher, who introduced him to the Mineshaft, a members-only BDSM gay leather bar and sex club in Manhattan. Mapplethorpe extensively documented the scenes at the Mineshaft.

As the 1980s unfolded, Mapplethorpe's focus shifted to statuesque male and female nudes, delicate flower still lifes, and formal portraits of artists and celebrities.

Tragically, Mapplethorpe died of complications from HIV/AIDS at the age of 42, passing away in a Boston hospital on March 9, 1989.

Robert Mapplethorpe's Art Style

Operating predominantly within the confines of a studio and opting almost entirely for a black-and-white palette, the primary focus of Robert Mapplethorpe's artistic endeavors lies in the realm of eroticism.

His extensive portfolio encompasses a diverse array of sexual subjects, capturing the essence of the BDSM subculture prevalent in New York during the 1970s. Additionally, he delved into the portrayal of black male nudes and classical depictions of female bodybuilders.

Beyond the exploration of the human form and sexuality, his artistic gaze extended to various subjects, including the delicate beauty of flowers, particularly orchids and calla lilies. Furthermore, he found inspiration in the innocence of children, the stoic presence of statues, and the captivating allure of celebrities and fellow artists.