Product Description

Robert Mapplethorpe is best known for his intentionally shocking, often sculptural erotica and his exquisite minimalist floral images. His earliest and most frequent subject was himself, in various guises that celebrated his ego, his body, and his sexual preferences. Taken in the early 1970s, these 65 self-portraits, most previously unpublished, create a window into the soul of a complex artist, and present Mapplethorpe’s singular vision that helped shift the direction of late-20th-century art. As with all Arena Editions publications, this book features top-of-the-line production values, with beautiful papers, printing, and binding.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #684982 in Books
• Published on: 2001-05-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 144 pages

Customer Reviews

Sexually Revealing the Self!
Robert Mapplethorpe was never afraid of revealing his true self and personal sexuality to the world. He shocked many people with his "in your face" attitude. He wanted the world to realize that we're all sexual beings who shouldn't be ashamed of our bodies or sexual desires. Life is for living, and he lived it to the fullest. There have been many books published about Mapplethorpe, but this volume is a very personal collection of his black and white Polaroid photographs he took of himself in the early 1970's. They reveal the many moods of Mapplethorpe, whether he was being erotic, sexy, dark & sinister, or very innocent. It's a valuable collection of photos that verge on the edge of excitement. There are about 65 black & white self-portraits here. Some are not as clear as others due to the technology of the period.

There is a very informative essay by Richard Marshall which is an invaluable addition to this book. A nicely produced book by Arena Editions, with quality paper, printing, and design. Robert Mapplethorpe was a man who's personal beauty and good looks, only enhanced his talented life as one of our most famous photographers. A handsome addition for anyone's collection.

Joe Hanssen