The world of homoerotic photography has come a long way since the establishment of Athletic Model Guild, founded by Bob Mizer in Los Angeles in 1945. Mizer himself was a genius and worked on every aspect of the studio’s production from the graphic design and tedious cut-and-paste production of the layout to the composition of the texts and the all-important selection of photographs. Mizer’s photographic foundation celebrated the power of controversial photography and his legacy lives on through the highly coveted publication of his genre: Physique Pictorial (PP).
Although PP appeared a bit unkempt in its later years, it remains the most highly coveted publication of its kind, thanks to the breathtaking photography and careful curation by Bob Mizer himself. PP’s 3-volume set, which was published previously, still provides readers with the chance to explore the world of homoerotic photography and witness the groundbreaking work of Bob Mizer. The set features a complete reprint of PP, providing readers with access to Mizer’s revolutionary studio and his legacy. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in homoerotic photography or the history of Athletic Model Guild, and provides a unique window into the world of a true visionary.
The new and improved Physique Pictorial is still published four times a year and features treasures from the Bob Mizer collection, as well as other photographers of his era, and new photographers that understand what Mizer sought in the athletic young men he photographed. The magazine continues to celebrate the power of controversial photography and is a testament to Bob Mizer’s contribution to the world of homoerotic photography. Through his lens, he captured the beauty and power of the human body, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate.