A Retrospective Across Two Museums

This major retrospective exhibition reexamines the arc of Robert Mapplethorpe's photographic work from its humble beginnings in the early 1970s to the culture wars of the 1990s. The exhibition, hosted jointly by two major museums, featured a wide range of works, including portraits, nudes, still lifes, and the controversial X Portfolio. It also highlighted his studio practice and the establishment of his foundation, which continues to preserve his legacy today.

Creating a Unified Visitor Experience

The challenge was to connect the exhibitions across both museums, providing visitors with a seamless and engaging way to explore Mapplethorpe’s art and influence.

Collaboration

Heroic partnered with Getty to design and launch Mapplethorpe.la, a mobile-oriented museum companion experience that:

• Offered an interactive guide for visitors attending exhibitions at both venues.

• Highlighted key works, themes, and timelines in a user-friendly format.

• Bridged the physical gap between the museums through cohesive digital storytelling.

Heroic’s digital expertise transformed the exhibition into a connected, modern experience, ensuring Mapplethorpe’s legacy resonated with a 21st-century audience.