ROBERT LONGO, MEN IN THE CITIES
For his Men in the Cities series, Robert Longo set up his camera on the rooftop of his apartment and threw a variety of objects at his friends, capturing their aggressive reactions in a series of remarkable photographs, created between 1977 and 1983, that then began a series of original charcoal drawings that then became an infamous group of lithographs created over the course of the next two decades. The jerks and spasms of Longo's subjects, sharply dressed in business attire, have an elegance and grace that is entirely unexpected; protective reactions and exaggerated gestures have been turned into effortless and authentic choreography, a ballet of falls and stumbles, leaps and trips. The movements are fresh and vital, full of energy and life, even while they portray a sense of agony. They document an essence of human motion, boiled down to pure expression.
Robert Longo, a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene, carved a lasting legacy with the work in this series. Emerging in the early 1980s, this collection of artworks not only showcased Longo's technical prowess but also became a poignant reflection of the fragility and vulnerability of the human condition.
Men in the Cities captivated the art world with its unique blend of hyper-realism and surrealism. These figures seemed frozen in a moment of ecstatic movement, creating a tension between stillness and kinetic energy.
Robert Longo, Gretchen & Eric, 1985
At first glance, the series may appear as a visual exploration of urban life and the corporate world. However, deeper analysis reveals layers of symbolism and profound societal commentary. The rigid business suits worn by the figures symbolize societal expectations, conformity, and the pressures of modern life. The contorted poses suggest a struggle against these constraints, a yearning for individuality and freedom.
Longo's background in film and his fascination with cinema are evident in the series. The dynamic poses and dramatic chiaroscuro lighting evoke a sense of cinematic movement, blurring the lines between static art and the moving image. The artist's ability to convey narrative tension within a single frame adds a cinematic depth.
Men in the Cities remains a defining body of work for Robert Longo, showcasing his mastery of charcoal as a medium and his keen understanding of societal dynamics. The series has inspired subsequent generations of artists, and its impact extends beyond the confines of the art world. Longo's exploration of the human experience, captured in the frozen moments of his figures, continues to resonate with viewers, inviting introspection and contemplation.
Robert Longo's Men in the Cities series stands as a testament to the power of art to transcend its time and speak to universal themes. Through his masterful imagery, Longo created a visual language that transcends cultural boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the art world and beyond.
