Ken Moody Portfolio

Ken Moody was Mapplethorpe’s muse and his most photographed subject, after Lisa Lyon. The portfolio is the perfect representation of what made Mapplethorpe’s work so signature – his quality of light, investigation of texture and sculptural form, and interest in culturally charged subject matter. By photographing the form of a black man, Mapplethorpe is challenging ideas of the time. When considering the photographs, they can be seen in 2 ways, 1. he’s elevating the black male by showing him as both vital and empowered; 2. he’s objectifying him by sexualizing his strength and form. This is such a great example of a quote I came across explaining the draw to Mapplethorpe’s work:

This effect of making the viewer stop, pause and consider is part of what makes this such an important portfolio and most likely why images from the portfolio are in the collections of the MOMA, Guggenheim, Phillips Collection and the National Gallery of Art.

Through his use of light and shadow, Moody’s muscles and the curves of his body are highlighted and brought into focus. The way Mapplethorpe looks at and captures his form is really reminiscent of Renaissance sculptures such as Michelangelo and Bernini. The colored backgrounds of the images brings Moody into even further focus. The space behind him becomes indeterminate. With the use of a backdrop and the seeming simplicity of his poses, Mapplethorpe perfectly underscores the solidarity and strength of Moody.