Robert Mapplethorpe's black-and-white photography resembles smooth porcelain, exuding a classical eroticism reminiscent of ancient Greek black pottery. The perfectly balanced male body radiates youth and tension, accompanied by a subtle sensuality. It is both elegant and provocative, embodying a unique duality.
The first artwork encountered in Mapplethorpe's exhibition 'The Poetics of Form' at the International Gallery is a striking image of a black male figure (Thomas) with perfect symmetry.
The image of Thomas evokes ancient Greek pottery, where dynamic male forms were illuminated against a glossy black surface. Mapplethorpe skillfully manipulates light in his black-and-white photography to focus on the robust male physique.
Within a square frame, the model's body is encircled, showcasing a balance and tension that resembles the vigorous athletes of the ancient Olympic Games. This embodies classical sensuality.
There are similarities to Leonardo da Vinci's 'Vitruvian Man', yet while the Vitruvian Man symbolizes ideal rationality constrained by geometric order, Mapplethorpe's perspective is akin to that of an unknown ancient potter.
Kang Myung-joo, Deputy Director of the International Gallery, noted, "Mapplethorpe once said that photography is 'the perfect way to sculpt.' He viewed photography not merely as a medium for capturing fleeting moments but as a sculptural act that meticulously constructs light and shadow, proportion and balance."
The exhibition runs at the International Gallery Hanok until July 19.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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