Künstler: Robert Mapplethorpe (1946 - 1989) Titel: William S. Burroughs, 1982 Medium: Fotografien, C print Edition C.L.A.G Carl Laszlo, Basel 9,8 x 7,8 in (24,9 x 19,8 cm) Robert Mapplethorpe (1946-1989) was an American photographer known for his provocative and controversial works. Born and raised in Floral Park, New York, Mapplethorpe discovered his passion for photography while studying Graphic Arts at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. In the 1970s and 1980s, Mapplethorpe gained fame for his black and white photographs, often exploring themes of sexuality, body, and identity. His works often featured homoerotic imagery, flowers, and portraits of celebrities and artists. Mapplethorpe's meticulous attention to detail and play with light and shadow brought a unique and captivating aesthetic to his photographs. Throughout his career, Mapplethorpe faced significant controversy and censorship due to the explicit nature of his subject matter. Despite this, he remained dedicated to exploring and challenging societal norms and conventions through his art. Mapplethorpe's work has been exhibited in numerous prestigious galleries and museums around the world, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. His photographs continue to provoke conversations and inspire artists and photographers to this day. Tragically, Mapplethorpe passed away at the age of 42 due to complications from AIDS. His legacy as a pioneering photographer and provocateur lives on, leaving an indelible mark on the art world and challenging perceptions of beauty and desire.