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ROBERT MAPPLETHORPE

Robert Mapplethorpe’s influence on contemporary fine-art photography cannot be overstated. His dramatic career and the breadth of his oeuvre contribute to his legend and position as one of the luminaries of 20th century photography. His pictures range from shocking photos meant to challenge aesthetic complacency to serene and thoughtful portraits and floral images.

Robert Mapplethorpe’s work is housed in nearly every major collection in the world. In 1988, a year before succumbing to AIDS, he established the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, which advances photography and funds research into curing HIV.