The Bob Mizer Foundation's "So It Begins…" series culminates in an insightful retrospective spanning the illustrious career of Bob Mizer (1922-1992), whose pioneering vision redefined photographic portraiture. This three-part exhibition journey navigates through Mizer's evolving creative landscape, from his early exploration of American subcultures to the vivid chromatic innovations of his later work.

The series began with "Bob Mizer Early Work 1945-1955," presenting a collection of photographs that unveiled a lesser-known facet of Mizer's oeuvre. Beyond his famed "beefcake" photography, these early works captured a vibrant array of subcultural identities, from "nature boys" and beatniks to soldiers and circus performers. This exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the rich tapestry of mid-20th-century American life, as seen through Mizer's lens.

"Bob Mizer Socially Redeeming Value 1955-1975" explored the transformative impact of the Roth v. United States Supreme Court ruling on Mizer's artistic expression. Faced with shifting legal definitions of obscenity, Mizer adeptly navigated these constraints, presenting the male form within a framework of healthful living and exercise. This collection of selected film stills revealed Mizer's strategic response to the era's sociopolitical climate, embodying a nuanced negotiation of artistic freedom and societal norms.

The concluding chapter, "Bob Mizer Chromatic Mannerisms 1962-1992," highlighted Mizer's adventurous shift to color photography. This period marks a significant departure from his earlier work, embracing a Mannerist influence characterized by exaggerated forms and dynamic compositions. Through vibrant hues and elaborate staging, Mizer's late-career photographs engage with themes of tension, drama, and emotion, capturing the complexity of human expression.

Together, these exhibitions present a comprehensive view of Bob Mizer's artistic journey, from his documentation of American subcultures to the innovative use of color that defined his later years. Through this series, and the highlights presented here, the Bob Mizer Foundation invites visitors to explore the nuanced interplay between art, identity, and the evolving cultural landscape of 20th-century America.