The poses adopted by the models he photographs are those frequently associated with female nudes they’re cheeky but also sensitive, even introspective. In his series The Company of Men, Swiss photographer Alexandre Haefeli plays with conventional notions of masculinity and femininity. His works are often haptic and dramatic, capturing our attention as viewers while also not forcing us to see his subjects in specific ways. Mapplethorpe became the first photographer to bring a large body of homoerotic art into museums and galleries. To celebrate the eminent works of Mapplethorpe, editors Paul Martineau and Britt Salvesen created Robert Mapplethorpe: The Photographs, a photobook showcasing 241 of Mapplethorpe’s works. Let’s start with the father of gay photography, Robert Mapplethorpe (1946-1989). We hope these works inspire you to celebrate the love, play and joy that make up the spirit of this wonderful week which draws our attention to equality and kindness. From illuminating the power of being a confident naked gay man in the Netherlands to capturing the beauty of two women sharing fruit in Vietnam, these photographs manifest sentiments of acceptance and pride.
In honour of Amsterdam Gay Pride week, this year from July 29th to August 6th, we wanted to draw your attention to eight special series about being gay.
