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johngreinerferrisstudio's avatar

Mapplethorpe's work is stunning, and like so many other artists, there is a person or persons in his background, whether it's a spouse, a patron, what have you who can't be ignored. In Mapplethorpe's case, it was his printer, Tom Baril, who was the person who made those prints. Mapplethorpe, fair enough, had very little interest in film development or printing. His strength and genius was in other areas.

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Ann Landi's avatar

Agree about Baril. He never quite got the credit he deserved, and his own photos are quite wonderful.

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Rogue Art Historian's avatar

Agreed. Baril was basically Mapplethorpe’s behind-the-scenes hero. Even though he’s tried to distance himself from Mapplethorpe’s work, he still prints for the Mapplethorpe Foundation. Photographers might set up the shot and nail the composition, but without someone who really knows how to pull those prints in the darkroom, you’d miss out on all that rich tonal quality. Baril’s technique goes way beyond basic photo printing. He’s a master of film development, using tricks like selenium toning and even dunking prints in black tea to get that gold patina. Mapplethorpe had the vision, and Baril made sure it looked absolutely killer on paper. Just goes to show great art is often a team effort, even if we usually only hear one name.

Baril’s “Eustoma” print is a favorite. He’s an incredible artist in his own right.

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Ann Landi's avatar

Thanks for this reminder about Mapplethorpe's brilliance. and the overview of his work. He is still so relevant and fresh, especially in these times.

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Rogue Art Historian's avatar

So happy that you enjoyed. I couldn’t agree more.

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