Mapplethorpe + Munch

Book excerpt: A fascinating look at how Mapplethorpe and Munch, although separated by many years, shared certain affinities in their lives and artwork This revelatory catalogue delves into the many affinities shared between two widely renowned and discussed artists, Robert Mapplethorpe (1946-1989) and Edvard Munch (1863-1944), whose intensely studied work has, until now, never been considered in relation to one another. Mapplethorpe + Munch brings to light how these two monumental figures curiously relate on an existential level, in how they deal with questions concerning sexuality, and in their way of utilizing self-portraiture as a means to explore issues of personal identity. Featuring essays that examine the thematic impulses behind the accompanying exhibition, this publication establishes a previously unexplored association between two equally contentious art figures, while working to impart alternative perspectives and new insight into their respective outputs. Although distinct in their legacies, Mapplethorpe and Munch remain remarkably intertwined. Distributed for Mercatorfonds Exhibition Schedule: Munch Museum, Oslo (02/06/16-05/29/16)