Robert Mapplethorpe Artist Quotations

The photographs that are art have to be separated from the rest - then preserved.

I always thought I was good. That's why it was so frustrating when other people didn't agree.

Sell the public flowers... things that they can hang on their walls without being uptight.

I am selfish, but that's an attribute that all artists possess.

People have done pornographic pictures forever, but most of the people who involve themselves in explicit sexuality aren't really artists.

I don't think any collector knows his true motivation.

Whether it's an orgy or a cocktail party, I know how to do it.

The best picture I got was Bianca Jagger whispering in Mick's ear. I caught them telling a secret, which is sort of rude.

I'm not photographing anything naked these days. I haven't been concentrating on bodies recently.

I don't use recreational drugs, except for cocaine, hallucinogens, and nitrates.

I just want to be written about as a normal artist

If I am at a party, I want to be at the party. Too many photographers use the camera to avoid participating in things. They become professional observers.