Meaning: The quote "Sell the public flowers... things that they can hang on their walls without being uptight" by Robert Mapplethorpe, the renowned American photographer, encapsulates his approach to art and his desire to make it accessible to a wider audience. Mapplethorpe was known for his controversial and provocative work, often exploring themes of sexuality, gender, and identity in his photography. However, this quote reflects a different aspect of his artistic philosophy, one that emphasizes the beauty and universality of nature and art.

Mapplethorpe's reference to "selling the public flowers" can be interpreted as a metaphor for offering the public something beautiful and uplifting. Flowers are often associated with beauty, fragility, and the ephemeral nature of life. By suggesting that the public should be offered "flowers," Mapplethorpe is advocating for art that is visually appealing and capable of evoking positive emotions. This aligns with his belief in the power of art to transcend boundaries and connect with people on a fundamental level.

The second part of the quote, "things that they can hang on their walls without being uptight," speaks to Mapplethorpe's belief in the democratization of art. He is expressing a desire for art that is not intimidating or pretentious, but rather something that people can appreciate and enjoy in their everyday lives. Mapplethorpe's use of the phrase "without being uptight" suggests that art should not be exclusive or unapproachable, but rather inclusive and open to interpretation.

Mapplethorpe's own work often pushed the boundaries of conventional aesthetics and challenged societal norms, particularly in relation to sexuality and the human body. However, this quote reveals a more nuanced aspect of his artistic vision, one that emphasizes the inherent beauty of nature and the potential for art to enrich people's lives.

In a broader context, Mapplethorpe's quote can be seen as a call for art that is accessible and relatable to a diverse audience. It reflects a desire to break down barriers and make art a part of everyday life, rather than something reserved for elite or intellectual circles. This sentiment aligns with the broader movement towards democratizing art and making it more inclusive and diverse.

Mapplethorpe's own legacy continues to provoke discussion and debate, but this quote offers insight into his broader aspirations as an artist. It reflects his desire to create art that resonates with people from all walks of life and brings beauty and inspiration into their homes. By advocating for "flowers" and art that is not "uptight," Mapplethorpe communicates a vision of art as a source of joy, contemplation, and connection for everyone.

In conclusion, Robert Mapplethorpe's quote "Sell the public flowers... things that they can hang on their walls without being uptight" encapsulates his belief in the universal appeal of art and the importance of making it accessible to all. It reflects his desire for art to be visually captivating, emotionally uplifting, and free from elitism or exclusivity. This quote offers a glimpse into Mapplethorpe's artistic philosophy and his vision for art as a source of beauty and inspiration for everyone.