Show me some works by artist or photographer Robert maplethorpe and why was he so controversial?

Robert Mapplethorpe was an American photographer known for his stark, often provocative imagery, which explored themes of sexuality, gender, and the boundaries of art. His works often featured portraits, flowers, and explicit depictions of the gay BDSM subculture. Some notable works by Mapplethorpe include: 1. **"Self-Portrait"**: This series of self-portraits showcases Mapplethorpe's exploration of his own identity and sexuality, often incorporating elements that challenge traditional norms. 2. **"The Perfect Moment"**: This is perhaps one of his most famous exhibitions, featuring a range of images that depict both classical beauty and more explicit sexual content, including nudity and BDSM. 3. **"Flowers"**: Mapplethorpe also created a series of floral photographs that juxtapose beauty with a stark, sometimes haunting aesthetic. These pieces highlight his skill in composition and lighting. 4. **"Patrick's Legs"**: This iconic photograph features a close-up of the legs of his partner, Patrick McIlhenney, and exemplifies Mapplethorpe's ability to blend eroticism with fine art. 5. **"Man in Polyester Suit"**: A notable portrait of a man dressed in a suit that appears more akin to the fashion styles of the 1980s, combined with a direct stare, this work emphasizes themes of identity and androgyny. ### Controversy Mapplethorpe was controversial for several reasons: 1. **Explicit Sexual Content**: His photographs often included explicit representations of sexuality, particularly involving BDSM, which challenged societal norms and comfort levels. This led to debates about obscenity and the boundaries of artistic expression. 2. **National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Funding**: In the late 1980s, some of his works became central to a heated debate about government funding for the arts. Following an exhibition of his work at the Corcoran Gallery in Washington, D.C., some politicians and organizations called for the defunding of the NEA, arguing that Mapplethorpe's work was pornographic. 3. **Themes of Identity and Race**: Mapplethorpe's exploration of masculinity, race, and the LGBTQ+ experience provided a lens through which societal tensions could be examined; yet this also drew criticism and accusations of exploitation or sensationalism. 4. **Cultural Impact**: The intense scrutiny and debate surrounding his work brought to the forefront important discussions about censorship, the role of art in society, and the boundaries of acceptable content in public funding and exhibitions. Despite—or perhaps because of—this controversy, Robert Mapplethorpe remains a significant figure in contemporary art, influencing discussions about sexuality, identity, and artistic freedom. His work continues to provoke thought and discussion, reflecting the complexities of human experience.