Robert Longo’s “Men in the Cities” series, which began in the late 1970s and extended into the 1990s, is one of his most iconic and recognizable bodies of work. While the series as a whole started before 1993, Longo’s continued exploration of the theme remained consistent.
The “Men in the Cities” series primarily features life-size drawings of sharply dressed men and women in contorted poses, appearing as if they are caught in a moment of intense physicality or perhaps being struck by an unseen force. The figures, often set against stark white backgrounds, seem to be suspended in time and space, adding to the dramatic tension of the piece.
Longo’s meticulous charcoal technique renders every detail of the subjects’ clothing, hair, and expressions. This hyperrealistic approach contrasts with the exaggerated and somewhat ambiguous poses of the figures, further heightening the sense of unease.
The series can be interpreted in various ways. Some view it as a commentary on the urban hustle, the rigidity of corporate life, or the internal struggles of modern existence. The sense of tension, movement, and vulnerability captured in the figures evokes a feeling of both familiarity and alienation.
In summary, Robert Longo’s “Men in the Cities” series from 1993 (and its broader timeframe) masterfully combines technical prowess with powerful imagery, offering a provocative exploration of modernity, identity, and the human condition.