If 'exhibitionism' can be defined as the act of presenting to the public eye the best attributes of the subject, then this very beautiful book by photographer Christopher Makos fills bill. The work of Makos is well known throughout the industry as the source of some of the finest photography of stars, style, fashion and la dolce vita, but here he turns his camera to an evaluation and celebration of the male nude and almost nude. Apparently this portfolio came into publication at the encouragement of and collaboration with Calvin Klein, the master of advertising eroticism. But just how much is collaboration and how much is Makos' own heretofore private library is information unnecessary to enjoy this elegant volume.
Makos (and Klein for that matter) both understand the male physique and the male psyche, finding that the subtle sharing of one's body to the sensitive camera is far more sensual and erotic than practiced indulgent arrogance. Makos' models are sculpted creatures, obviously well trained physically and professionally, and are able to find that right moment with Makos that shows the human body at its most eloquent. Yes, there are full frontal nudity views, not simply for commercial sake but because frontal views are very much a part of the vantage of seeing the body. This collection of some 150 photographs in both smoothly serene black and white and lush full color have been curated by both Makos and Klein with their mutual affinity for dramatic effect and technical detail which results in images of male eroticism such as the billboards of Klein underwear (images which have sex appeal for both women and men) and for the portraits of intimate sharing by Makos.
This is one photography book that can rest comfortable on any photography/art devotee coffee table and bring beauty and dignity and respect for fine photography and for the magnificence of the male form to a wide and growing audience.
Grady Harp, November 05