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 features portraits, nudes, still lifes, and the controversial X Portfolio. It explores Mapplethorpe’s studio practice and the creation of his foundation, which has shepherded his legacy into the 21st century. Mapplethorpe's work can be found in the collections of major museums around the world.

Heroic collaborated with Getty to intertwine both museums through a mobile-oriented museum companion experience called Mapplethorpe.la.