When I work, and in my art, I hold hands with God

When I work, and in my art, I hold hands with God

Robert Mapplethorpe, a controversial and influential American photographer known for his provocative and often explicit images, once famously said, “When I work, and in my art, I hold hands with God.” This statement encapsulates the deep connection Mapplethorpe felt between his creative process and a higher power, suggesting that his artistic endeavors were guided by a divine presence.

Mapplethorpe’s work often pushed the boundaries of conventional art and challenged societal norms, particularly in regards to sexuality and identity. His photographs, which ranged from portraits of celebrities to still lifes of flowers to explicit depictions of BDSM culture, were characterized by their technical precision and aesthetic beauty. Despite the controversial nature of his subject matter, Mapplethorpe’s images were undeniably powerful and thought-provoking, sparking important conversations about art, censorship, and freedom of expression.