Robert Longo

Robert Longo (b. January 7, 1953)

Robert Longo is an American artist, filmmaker, and musician, known for his strikingly detailed works that often blend photography and drawing. He came to prominence in the 1980s with his series “Men in the Cities,” which features sharply dressed men and women in contorted poses, often appearing to be in mid-motion or falling.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Longo grew up in Long Island and later studied at Buffalo State College, where he became deeply involved in the emerging art scene. He was a part of the “Pictures Generation,” a group of artists who explored the implications of mass media and image proliferation in the late 20th century.

Longo’s work is characterized by its intense precision and scale. He often employs the use of charcoal and graphite to create massive drawings that have photographic realism. These works often touch on political, cultural, and personal themes, with subjects ranging from sharks and atomic bombs to religious symbols and cultural icons.

Beyond drawing, Longo has ventured into sculpture, film, and music. Notably, he directed the cyberpunk movie “Johnny Mnemonic” in 1995, starring Keanu Reeves. As a musician, he was a founding member of the band “Robert Longo’s Menthol Wars” in the late 1970s.

Throughout his career, Longo’s work has consistently grappled with themes of power, social memory, and American identity. His art acts as a reflection and critique of the cultural and political landscape, offering viewers an opportunity to confront and question their perceptions of the world. As of 2022, Robert Longo continues to be an influential figure in the contemporary art scene.