Essay by Patti Smith: Art Rats in New York City

Essay by Patti Smith: Art Rats in New York City

In 1967, I arrived at the Port Authority Bus Terminal carrying a plaid suitcase, driven by a dream to become an artist. Though I may have lacked skill at the time, my determination was fueled by a deep belief in my calling. This vision came to me with pure intensity, without any divine bargain or expectations. I knew I faced this journey alone but hoped to find a companion, and fate brought me one.

Meeting Robert Mapplethorpe

Robert Mapplethorpe was an American raised in a strict Catholic family. He played saxophone in his high school band and earned an R.O.T.C. scholarship to study graphic arts at Pratt Institute. His mother hoped he would enter the priesthood, while his father expected him to rise through military ranks, backed by commercial art skills. Robert had pale skin, green eyes, and closely cropped dark curly hair.

Following his father's plan, Robert received an apartment, knee-high leather riding boots, and an allowance. At Pratt, he was recognized as a talented draftsman and appeared to follow the expected path. However, beneath this surface, another identity was emerging. At twenty, Robert abandoned the saxophone, the robes, and the rifle. Looking in the mirror, he no longer saw a priest or an R.O.T.C. captain in his future.

“There was no Faustian pact connected with my vow, no expectations from godly elements. I knew I would be on my own, yet still hoped for a compatriot, and Providence led me to him.”
“At the age of twenty, Robert laid down his saxophone, his robes, and his rifle. He looked in the mirror and saw neither a priest nor a future captain in the R.O.T.C.”

Author's summary: Patti Smith reflects on her early artistic aspirations in 1967 and the transformative friendship with Robert Mapplethorpe, who rejected his expected path to embrace his true identity.

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The New Yorker The New Yorker — 2025-11-01

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