Robert Mapplethorpe : Perfection In Form

Today, Robert Mapplethorpe is recognised as firmly an artist of his time, whose work was richly steeped in the classical tradition. This historically significant work accompanies the great Mapplethorpe exhibition at the Galleria dell'Accademia of Florence, beginning May 26, 2009.

Even his most transgressive work borrowed heavily from the conventions of such masters as Michelangelo. Although separated by the centuries, each artist helped shape how we view the world. This book explores the connection from both academic and aesthetic perspectives. Serving as the exhibition catalogue for the show at Florence's Galleria dell'Accademia, this volume illustrates one of Mapplethorpe's favourite statements: like Michelangelo, he sought "the perfection in form" in all subjects, from nudes and portraits to flowers and architecture.

Inspired by a conversation between musician and artist Patti Smith - Mapplethorpe's first companion and muse - and art historian Jonathan K. Nelson, co-curator of the show, Perfection in Form mixes the sculptures and drawings of Michelangelo with Mapplethorpe’s formalist nudes, portraits, and still lifes. Nelson and Franca Falletti, director of the Galleria dell’Accademia, have assembled more than 100 works by the two artists to construct a conversation between the past and present — and what Smith describes as a "realization of Robert's dream."

Mapplethorpe's nude figure studies of female body-builder Lisa Lyons and sculpted black musclemen Ken, Thomas, Ajitto, and Tyler are juxtaposed with Michelangelo’s Sketch for the Risen Christ in the Last Judgment and marble sculpture The Bearded Prisoner. The old master’s drawings of hands are compared to the contemporary photographer’s fragmented body parts. Meanwhile, Mapplethorpe's use of square and circular framing devices for portraits and figure studies are shown in relation to Michelangelo’s ground plans for churches.

125 ILLUSTRATIONS colour & duotone photos