PHOTOS: Before there was Robert Mapplethorpe, there was John Palatinus. Los Angeles exhibition space drkrm hopes you’re hungry for some beefcake — they’re presenting the work of John Palatinus, one of the pioneering physique photographers of the 1950’s in June.
According to drkrm:
Along with Lon of New York, Bruce of Los Angeles, and Bob Mizer of Athletic Model Guild, he helped create a whole new genre of male photography. He was a major influence on Robert Mapplethorpe and may be one of the last living photographers from the 1950’s golden era of physique photography. This exhibition will be on view from June 8th through June 29th, 2013 with an Artist reception on Saturday, June 8 from 7-10pm.
drkrm was kind enough to send us a few of the photos on display next month, showcasing “the semi-naked, body-proud weightlifters of the time.” For more on John Palatinus, click here.
dvlaries
They wouldn’t think of shaving anything but their faces, and they’re all blessedly free of defacing ink. Not enough like that anymore.
MMDD
@dvlaries: Amen. I long for the day when the natural beauty of the male body is finally realized.
Sammy Schlipshit
Aaaaaah, the good old days in many, many ways.
It’s probably a generational thing but these guys are waaaaaay more erotic than today’s current crop of hairless, gym freaks.
His was a great style of photography as well.
Wonder if his confiscated work from back in the day still exists anywhere? Someone should check with the NYPD…but I’ll bet those photos wound up in some officers house.
Sammy Schlipshit
Aaaaaah, the good old days in many, many ways.
It’s probably a generational thing but these guys are waaaaaay more erotic than today’s current crop of hairless, tatted up gym freaks.
His was a great style of photography as well.
Wonder if his confiscated work from back in the day still exists anywhere? Someone should check with the NYPD…but I’ll bet those photos wound up in some officers house.
streeteditions
No manscaping! and, HELLO, cowboy!
DavidIntl
It is nice to have this historical perspective, but personally I much prefer the manscaped, less muscled youths of today. I will, however, second the comments noting approvingly the lack of tattoos.