This podcast delves into the controversy surrounding photographer Robert Mapplethorpe's exhibition in 1990, examining the debate over obscenity and the First Amendment. It explores the evolution of Mapplethorpe's style, the consequences faced by the exhibition, and the chaotic aftermath of a police raid. The podcast also discusses the diversity of the crowd that came to see the exhibition and touches on other intriguing topics such as capturing innocent moments and a controversial dentist in Florida.
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Quick takeaways
The legal battle over Robert Mapplethorpe's exhibition in Cincinnati sparked a national debate on censorship, artistic freedom, and community values.
Museums and galleries in Cincinnati became more cautious about displaying controversial art due to fear of legal repercussions and public backlash, stifling creative expression and limiting artistic freedom in the city.
The Mapplethorpe trial raised critical questions about the limits of artistic expression, obscenity laws, and the First Amendment rights of artists, highlighting the importance of protecting artistic freedom and the potential dangers of censorship and self-censorship.
Deep dives
Controversial exhibition featuring Robert Mapplethorpe's photographs causes a legal battle in Cincinnati
The Contemporary Arts Center in Cincinnati hosts an exhibition featuring photographs by Robert Mapplethorpe, including images of nudity, children, and sadomasochism. The exhibition becomes the center of a legal controversy, with the museum and its director facing obscenity charges. Supporters argue that the photographs have artistic value, while opponents claim they are indecent and immoral. The trial ends with a jury finding the defendants not guilty, in a case that sparks a national debate on censorship, artistic freedom, and community values.
Mapplethorpe's artistic style and changing legacy
Robert Mapplethorpe's photography ranges from portraits of celebrities and flowers to explicit images of sadomasochistic acts. Despite controversies surrounding his work, Mapplethorpe's status as an influential artist continues to grow. While critics accuse him of objectifying black men in his nudes, his artistic style, composition, and technique are widely recognized and appreciated. His photographs capture a distinct period in New York's history and provoke discussions about artistic boundaries and societal values.
The impact on Cincinnati's art scene
The legal battle over Mapplethorpe's exhibition has a chilling effect on cultural institutions and the art scene in Cincinnati. Museums and galleries become more cautious about displaying controversial or provocative art, fearing legal repercussions and public backlash. This reluctance to take risks in showcasing challenging art stifles creative expression and limits artistic freedom in the city. The trial serves as a cautionary tale for other institutions across the country.
Jesse McBride's experience as a subject of Mapplethorpe's photograph
Jesse McBride, who was photographed by Mapplethorpe as a nude child, reflects on his experience. He asserts that the photograph was taken innocently, without any exploitative intent. McBride challenges the claim that the image was child pornography, emphasizing that he consented to the photo and was not forced or harmed in any way. He believes that the controversy surrounding the photograph is rooted in society's changing attitudes towards nudity and the heightened concern for children's welfare.
Impact on the First Amendment and artistic expression
The Mapplethorpe trial raises critical questions about the limits of artistic expression and the First Amendment rights of artists and institutions. The trial highlights the tensions between obscenity laws, community standards, and the artistic value of controversial artwork. It becomes a landmark case that sparks discussions on the importance of protecting artistic freedom and the potential dangers of censorship and self-censorship.
Robert Mapplethorpe was one of the most famous photographers in the world—and one of the most controversial. When his work came to Cincinnati in 1990, it would be at the center of a vicious fight over obscenity and the First Amendment, one that threatened the future of art in America.
This episode of One Year was written by Evan Chung, One Year's senior producer. It was produced by Kelly Jones and Evan Chung, with additional production by Olivia Briley.
It was edited by Josh Levin, One Year’s editorial director, with Joel Meyer and Derek John, Slate’s executive producer of narrative podcasts. Merritt Jacob is our senior technical director.
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