"I'm not a photojournalist"

Robert Mapplethorpe's declaration, "I'm not a photojournalist", offers a direct insight into his artistic viewpoint and the unique border he viewed in between his work and documentary photography. Mapplethorpe, known for his intriguing and diligently composed images, focused on exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and aesthetic appeals through an art lens rather than simply recording truth.

By declaring this, Mapplethorpe stresses his role as an artist instead of a reporter. Photojournalism is worried about recording events as they unfold, striving to present reality to notify the general public and frequently preserving an objective perspective. On the other hand, Mapplethorpe's photography was intensely personal, stemmed from his distinct vision and experiences, particularly within the culture of New York in the 1970s and 1980s. His work is understood for its elegant structures and a concentrate on kind, texture, and lighting, often elevating his topics to renowned status.

Mapplethorpe's images blur the line in between art and life, pressing viewers to face their preconceived notions of appeal and morality. His purposeful option of subject, whether it be the human form in its various aspects, flowers, or self-portraits, catches more than just an image-- it challenges the viewer to see beyond the surface. In doing so, he obliges an emotional and intellectual engagement, encouraging discussions about societal standards and the boundaries of art.

By declining the label of photojournalist, Mapplethorpe claims full authorship over his artistic story. He asserts that his work shows a constructed truth shaped by his point of view, rather than a simple accurate account of the world. This difference is important to understanding Mapplethorpe's contribution to modern-day art and the extensive effect of his work in tough and expanding the scope of visual culture.