Meaning: This quote by Robert Mapplethorpe succinctly captures the shift in the art world from traditional portrait painting to photography as a medium for capturing and preserving images. In the past, having one's portrait painted was a time-consuming process that required sitting for long hours while the artist meticulously captured every detail. However, with the invention and widespread availability of photography, the demand for painted portraits has diminished, as photography offers a quicker and more accessible means of capturing likenesses.

Mapplethorpe's statement reflects the broader societal shift towards embracing photography as a dominant visual medium. In the modern age, where time is often perceived as a scarce and valuable resource, people are less inclined to sit for extended periods to have their portraits painted. Instead, they opt for the efficiency and immediacy of photography, which allows for rapid image capture and reproduction.

The quote also alludes to the economic implications of this shift. Mapplethorpe points out that "the money is in photography," suggesting that the commercial viability of photography has surpassed that of portrait painting. This observation is supported by the widespread use of photography in advertising, journalism, fashion, and art, where images are frequently used to convey information, evoke emotions, and document events. The rise of digital photography and social media has further accelerated the demand for visual content, creating new opportunities for photographers to monetize their work.

Robert Mapplethorpe, the author of the quote, was a renowned American photographer known for his black-and-white portraits, still lifes, and controversial imagery. His own career exemplifies the success and influence of photography in the contemporary art world. Mapplethorpe's work often explored themes of sexuality, gender, and identity, and he pushed the boundaries of artistic expression through his provocative and sometimes controversial images.

In addition to the artistic and commercial considerations, Mapplethorpe's quote also prompts reflection on the evolution of technology and its impact on visual representation. The invention of photography in the 19th century revolutionized the way we perceive and record the world around us. With the development of new photographic techniques, equipment, and digital tools, photography has become more accessible and versatile than ever before. The proliferation of smartphones with high-quality cameras has empowered individuals to become amateur photographers, contributing to the vast and diverse landscape of visual imagery.

Furthermore, Mapplethorpe's quote invites contemplation of the changing nature of portraiture itself. While traditional painted portraits often aimed to capture the sitter's likeness with a degree of idealization, photography has the capacity to reveal a more immediate and unvarnished representation. The candid and spontaneous nature of photography can capture authentic moments and emotions, offering a different kind of intimacy and realism compared to painted portraits.

In conclusion, Robert Mapplethorpe's quote encapsulates the cultural, economic, and technological shifts that have propelled photography to the forefront of visual representation. The transition from painted portraits to photography reflects changes in societal values, artistic practices, and commercial opportunities. As photography continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies and aesthetic trends, its role as a powerful and lucrative medium is likely to endure.

This transformation underscores the enduring significance of photography as a dynamic and influential form of visual expression in contemporary society.