Visionary, Controversial, Boundary-pushing, Subversiv, Influential. MASTER

Robert Mapplethorpe, born in 1946 and raised in a Catholic environment near New York City, initially had no ties to the art world. He began studying drawing, painting, and sculpture at the Pratt Institute in 1963, where he discovered and explored the works of artists like Joseph Cornell and Marcel Duchamp. In 1970, he started experimenting with photography using a Polaroid camera, incorporating his photographs into collages. As he progressed, Mapplethorpe shifted his focus solely to photography, holding his first solo exhibition featuring Polaroids at the Light Gallery in New York. He expanded his social circle and honed his photography skills by capturing portraits of individuals in New York’s artistic, nocturnal, and underground scenes. Alongside his artistic development, Mapplethorpe engaged in commercial projects such as creating album covers for Patti Smith, who became his close friend and muse, and contributing photographs to Interview magazine. Throughout his career, Mapplethorpe immersed himself in New York’s art and cultural industry, achieving significant social and cultural recognition before his death on March 9, 1989.

Etablished in 1988, the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation was founded by the acclaimed artist himself, just a year prior to his passing, with the aim of safeguarding his artistic legacy, advancing his creative vision, and advocating for causes close to his heart. As the inaugural president of the board of trustees, Mapplethorpe outlined two primary objectives: to elevate photography to the same level of recognition and respect as traditional art forms like painting and sculpture, and to contribute to HIV/AIDS medical research. Continuing Mapplethorpe’s intentions, the foundation remains dedicated to supporting photography initiatives in major museums and smaller institutions, providing assistance for exhibitions, acquisitions, and publications, thereby ensuring the enduring impact of Mapplethorpe’s work and the fulfillment of his philanthropic goals.

In conclusion, Robert Mapplethorpe’s journey from an unassuming upbringing to an iconic figure in the art world is a testament to his unwavering passion, creativity, and dedication. Starting his artistic exploration at Pratt Institute, he transitioned to photography in 1970, quickly mastering the medium and earning recognition through solo exhibitions and commercial projects. Mapplethorpe’s immersion in New York’s cultural milieu allowed him to capture the essence of his subjects with striking intensity, leaving an indelible mark on the art world. His legacy extends beyond his artistic achievements; the establishment of the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation reflects his commitment to preserving his work and advocating for causes he cared about, ensuring that his creative vision and philanthropic endeavors continue to inspire and impact future generations.