ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Mapplethorpe on Censorship, Flowers, and Commercial Work

publication · 2026-04-23

In 1974, Edith Cottrell interviewed Robert Mapplethorpe in London, months after Zoom and Photo magazines rejected his sadomasochistic photographs as too extreme. Mapplethorpe discussed his influences, early collecting, techniques, fondness for body part and flower portraits, and desire to do commercial work while retaining full control.

Key facts

  • Interview conducted in 1974 by Edith Cottrell
  • Location: London
  • Zoom and Photo magazines refused to publish Mapplethorpe's sado-maso photos
  • Mapplethorpe discussed his influences, collecting, techniques
  • He expressed affection for portraits of body parts and flowers
  • He wanted to do commercial work while maintaining control

Entities

Artists

  • Robert Mapplethorpe
  • Edith Cottrell

Institutions

  • Zoom
  • Photo

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom

Sources