This picture of two men in profile view may stimulate thoughts concerning homosexual relations. As Mapplethorpe grew in prominence through the early 80s, so did the public controversy surrounding the rise of homosexual advocacy. The debates raging about Mapplethorpe often reflect an undertone of these homosexual arguments. An objective examination of many of Mapplethorpe’s photographs suggests a love of the beauty of bodies, devoid of any political agenda.

Self Portrait | Homoerotic | Form | Classical | Comments? You can view comments or reviews of the Robert Mapplethorpe Retrospective when visiting the Gallery of Photography, Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland from November 1996 through January 1997. Photograph copyright © Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation. Site assistance provided by Temple Bar Properties.