Robert Mapplethorpe: Subject Object Image

A solo exhibition of works by iconic American artist Robert Mapplethorpe (b.1946 – d.1989). Widely acknowledged as one of the most groundbreaking photographers of the 20th century, Mapplethorpe’s unapologetic and provocative exploration of objectivity in his subjects challenged societal norms and pushed the boundaries of the times. While some of his photographs remain controversial, Mapplethorpe’s legacy is unquestionable, evidenced by work acquired and exhibited by major museums worldwide.

‘SUBJECT OBJECT IMAGE’, spans 18 years of Mapplethorpe’s life and covers the breadth of his subject matter. The show begins in 1976 when Mapplethorpe had already evolved from Polaroids and begun using a Hasselblad 500 camera. The exhibition concludes with images made in the final year of the artist’s life before his tragic death in 1989 at the age of only 42.

Many of the images included in the exhibition have not been widely exhibited before. These include still lifes created using everyday objects – Italian glass, antique silver and classical statuary – some of which Mapplethorpe collected together with his long-term partner, Sam Wagstaff.