If I have to change my lifestyle, I don't want to live

If I have to change my lifestyle, I don't want to live

Robert Mapplethorpe, the renowned American photographer known for his controversial and provocative work, once famously said, “If I have to change my lifestyle, I don't want to live.” These words encapsulate the essence of Mapplethorpe’s dedication to his art and his uncompromising commitment to living life on his own terms.

Mapplethorpe’s lifestyle was often considered unconventional and rebellious, as he pushed the boundaries of societal norms and challenged traditional notions of beauty and sexuality through his photography. His work often featured explicit and homoerotic imagery, which sparked controversy and censorship in the conservative cultural climate of the 1980s. Despite facing criticism and backlash, Mapplethorpe remained steadfast in his artistic vision and refused to conform to the expectations of others.

For Mapplethorpe, his art was not just a profession, but a way of life. He believed that true creativity could only flourish when one stayed true to themselves and embraced their unique perspective. To compromise his lifestyle would be to compromise his art, and for Mapplethorpe, that was a sacrifice he was unwilling to make.