GROTTO | Robert Mapplethorpe
Dual Perspective
Beauty and the devil are the same thing.
—Robert Mapplethorpe
The collaborative collection between GROTTO and the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation reveals a tension of contradictions, expressing a rebellious individuality through simple, pure visual design language.
Robert Mapplethorpe was one of the most transgressive photographers of the 20th century, pushing the boundaries of the photographic medium. He both inherited and challenged classical aesthetics, using the camera as a tool to subvert conservative values.
Mapplethorpe’s works have been exhibited at the Whitney Museum of American Art (New York), the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum (New York), and the Tate Modern (London, 2014).
"Robert’s flower are not always about sex, but they are always sensual."
Conversation with Versatile Creators
This collection draws inspiration from Robert Mapplethorpe’s black-and-white photography, featuring selected classic styles such as the R66, Tofu Bag, Soft Carry, and Mess Bag. The fusion of handbags with his highly impactful monochromatic works embodies fearless creativity that vastly expands the boundaries of art and discourse—a concrete expression of “Born For Freedom,” breaking through the constraints of reality through imagery.
Here, GROTTO invites three distinct creators—transgender model KYOTO, dancer Solong, and DJ Xia Chuan—to explore three keywords: “Conflict, Symbiosis, Fluidity,”
sharing their vibrant perspectives.
In Conversation with KYOTO
“Please believe in yourself.”
Q1. How do you interpret “Dual Perspective” in terms of your identity?
KYOTO: My body has many innate traits that are beyond my control, but I’ve learned to appreciate them—my curves, facial features, slender fingers. The blend of femininity and physiological conditions doesn’t conflict within me; instead, it shapes my authenticity. I also embrace my emotional and sensitive side, traits I’ve had since childhood. Though I sometimes wonder why I’m different from others, I’ve learned to reconcile with myself and am grateful for these qualities that make me who I am.
KYOTO
Solong
In Conversation with Solong
“Movement is Life.”
Q1. Have you seen Robert Mapplethorpe’s work? Do you feel a connection between his photography and your dance?
Solong: I first encountered Robert Mapplethorpe through Patti Smith’s book Just Kids. Their relationship moved me deeply—lovers, friends, and mutual muses.
I’m drawn to the quiet yet tense beauty in his work: seemingly restrained, yet brimming with energy and emotion. That kind of “beauty” doesn’t cater or compromise yet feels incredibly powerful.
His photography shares common ground with dance—both use the body, light, shadow, and posture to convey indescribable emotions. Often, it’s not about pleasing the audience but about facing oneself more honestly.
Q2. How is “Dual Perspective” reflected in your dance?
Solong: Dance itself is an art of contradiction. You need to move with your entire being, yet you must also be still enough to feel the moment. If you’re constantly moving, dance becomes mere form, losing its soul.
I often feel that “movement” is the body’s language, while “stillness” is the soul’s response. The breath between motion and stillness is like night and day—seemingly opposite yet mutually defining and enriching. This duality is the most captivating and authentic aspect of dance.
In Conversation with Xia Chuan
“Even a small change matters.”
Q1. How do you view different gender dynamics?
Xia Chuan: Women’s wisdom, edges, and presence—their charm far exceeds traditional labels like “gentleness.” In relationships between women, I experience a strength born from independence and equality. It comes from choice, bodily autonomy, and deep mutual understanding. This identity is like a key, unlocking the constraints society places on “femininity”, allowing me to truly recognize my own power.
Q2. In a society with pronounced gender structures, how do you hope to exert influence in your work or life?
Xia Chuan: In my view, today’s era is more open than the past, yet prejudice still persists.
I choose to respond with friendliness and authenticity, even if it means explaining “who we are” to just one person. I hope to connect with more people through expression—even small changes matter.
The black-and-white format allows creators to focus on their work with a purer attitude, while also imbuing the pieces with a timeless, classic quality.
Xia Chuan