Robert Mapplethorpe: The Archives surveys a virtually unknown resource that sheds new light on artist Robert Mapplethorpe's motivations, connections, business acumen, and talent as a curator and collector.

Celebrated photographer Robert Mapplethorpe challenged the limits of censorship and conformity, combining technical and formal mastery with unexpected, often provocative content that secured his place in history. Mapplethorpe’s artistic vision helped shape the social and cultural fabric of the 1970s and ’80s and, following his death in 1989 from AIDS, informed the political landscape of the 1990s. His photographic works continue to resonate with audiences all over the world.

Throughout his career, Mapplethorpe preserved studio files and art from every period and vein of his production, including student work, jewelry, sculptures, and commercial assignments. The resulting archive is fascinating and astonishing. 

Written by Frances Terpak and Michelle Brunnick with essays by Patti Smith and Jonathan Weinberg. 
The exhibition catalogue, Robert Mapplethorpe: The Photographs is also available.

- Hardcover
- 240 pages, 9.5 x 12 in.
- 
274 color and 134 b/w illustrations
- 2016