The aesthetics of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s were characterized by a range of subversive themes and artistic movements that explored eroticism, horror, BDSM, Satanism, cults, witchcraft, and the occult. In both photography and cinema, these decades witnessed a significant shift in the portrayal of these themes, reflecting the evolving social and cultural landscapes of the time.
The 1960s, often associated with the counterculture movement, marked a period of rebellion and experimentation. In photography, artists such as Helmut Newton and Guy Bourdin challenged traditional norms of beauty and sexuality. Newton’s provocative and often fetishistic images captured the essence of BDSM aesthetics, featuring dominant and submissive dynamics, leather, latex, and bondage elements. Bourdin, on the other hand, embraced surrealism and cinematic storytelling in his work, infusing his fashion photography with mysterious narratives that sometimes touched on the occult.
In cinema, the 1960s witnessed a surge in exploitation films that explored themes of horror and the supernatural. Directors like Roman Polanski, with his film “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968), delved into satanic cults and witchcraft, creating an atmosphere of psychological terror and suspense. This era also saw the rise of Italian giallo films, which blended elements of crime, eroticism, and horror. Filmmakers like Dario Argento and Mario Bava embraced vivid visuals, stylized violence, and occult motifs in their works, such as “Suspiria” (1977) and “Black Sabbath” (1963).
The 1970s continued to push boundaries, exploring darker and more explicit themes. Photography embraced a raw and gritty aesthetic, with artists like Robert Mapplethorpe capturing provocative and often controversial images. BDSM imagery became more prevalent, challenging societal norms and exploring power dynamics. The rise of underground and independent cinema during this time also contributed to the exploration of these themes. Films like “The Devil’s Rain” (1975) and “The Wicker Man” (1973) delved into satanic cults and pagan rituals, blending horror elements with social commentary.
The 1980s brought a new wave of erotic horror and occult-themed films. Photography continued to experiment with the fusion of sexuality and darkness, often inspired by the emerging subcultures of the time. Artists like Cindy Sherman used self-portraits to explore gender identity and the construction of female identity within societal norms. In cinema, the works of directors like David Cronenberg, with films like “Videodrome” (1983) and “Dead Ringers” (1988), merged body horror with eroticism, pushing boundaries and challenging viewers’ perceptions.
Overall, the aesthetics of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s in relation to erotic horror, BDSM, Satanism, cults, witchcraft, and the occult represented a departure from traditional norms and a bold exploration of taboo subjects. Photography and cinema became platforms for artists and filmmakers to challenge societal conventions, express their own visions, and provoke both thought and emotion. These decades continue to influence contemporary art and filmmaking, leaving a lasting impact on the exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and sexuality.
