Meaning: Art Cooper's quote provides an intriguing insight into the evolution of GQ magazine during his time as editor. GQ, which stands for Gentlemen's Quarterly, is a men's magazine known for its coverage of fashion, style, and culture. Cooper's observation about the magazine initially being perceived as a gay publication sheds light on the aesthetics and content that characterized GQ during that era.

During the period when Art Cooper took the helm as editor-in-chief of GQ in the late 1980s, the magazine underwent a transformation that significantly impacted its identity and readership. At that time, the publication was known for its focus on men's fashion and lifestyle, often featuring male models and celebrities in its pages. Cooper's acknowledgment that GQ was initially seen as a "gay magazine" reflects the unique visual and editorial direction the magazine embraced under his leadership.

The quote also alludes to the dominance of male beauty and aesthetics within the magazine's pages. Cooper's assertion that the male models were "much, much more beautiful than the girls" points to a deliberate emphasis on showcasing male attractiveness and style. This approach not only distinguished GQ from other men's magazines but also contributed to shaping its distinct visual identity.

Cooper's candid reflection on the early perception of GQ raises questions about the representation of gender and sexuality in the media. By acknowledging the magazine's initial association with gay culture, he brings attention to the complex interplay between editorial content, audience perception, and societal norms. Furthermore, his recognition of the prominence of male beauty within the magazine challenges traditional notions of masculinity and beauty standards, hinting at a broader cultural shift in the portrayal of men in fashion and lifestyle publications.

As GQ evolved under Cooper's leadership, it transcended its initial associations and expanded its readership to encompass a diverse audience interested in men's fashion, culture, and lifestyle. The magazine's content became more inclusive, featuring a balance of male and female models, as well as a broader range of topics that appealed to a wider readership. This shift in approach not only reflected the changing landscape of men's interests and attitudes but also positioned GQ as a leading voice in men's fashion and lifestyle journalism.

In conclusion, Art Cooper's quote offers valuable insights into the early perception and evolution of GQ magazine during his tenure as editor. His acknowledgment of the magazine's initial association with gay culture, as well as the emphasis on male beauty within its pages, sheds light on the unique visual and editorial direction that characterized GQ at that time. Furthermore, his reflection hints at broader societal and cultural shifts in the representation of gender and masculinity in media. Ultimately, Cooper's leadership played a pivotal role in reshaping GQ and solidifying its position as a prominent and influential publication in the realm of men's fashion and lifestyle.