This exhibition investigates the significant implications of the landmark 1957 Supreme Court case, Roth v. United States, which prompted a reevaluation of materials deemed obscene and unprotected by the First Amendment. Through the court's establishment of the criterion of "socially redeeming value," this ruling engendered a paradigm shift in artistic expression. Subsequently, Bob Mizer (1922-1992) and his contemporaries embarked on a creative journey, presenting their nude male models in a more "wholesome" light to validate their work as possessing the desired socially redeeming value. This exhibition examines the emergence of this transformative artistic approach, wherein images of nude males were publicly displayed, conveying principles of healthful living, exercise, and dietary habits as ideals to aspire to.

"So It Begins: Bob Mizer Socially Redeeming Value 1955-1975," showcases a meticulously curated collection of 25 images sourced from the archives of the Bob Mizer Foundation. These photographs encapsulate a defining era immediately preceding and spanning over a decade after the Roth ruling. The exhibited images feature male models engaged in both playful and serene activities, donning both costumes and nudity. Additionally, selected stills from Mizer's films during this time, often featuring nude models enacting symbolic struggles between concepts of good and evil, such as devils and angels, cops and robbers, and cowboys and Indians, further enrich the exhibition. Remarkably, Mizer's filmography also embraced an avant-garde aesthetic, exemplified by captivating production stills from works like the Warhol-esque Kissing Rocks or the experimental Boy Factory. Through this presentation, the exhibition elucidates the intricate processes through which mid-century physique photographers self-censored their own images as a means of self-preservation and maintaining relevance within the market.

By examining the convergence of the redefinition of obscenity and the pursuit of socially redeeming value in Bob Mizer's male physique photography, this exhibition offers a profound insight into the transformative power of artistic expression. It invites viewers to critically engage with the cultural, legal, and aesthetic considerations that shaped Mizer's creative choices. Ultimately, this exhibition seeks to deepen our understanding of the complex interplay between artistic freedom, societal norms, and the construction of visual narratives within the realm of male physique photography during the mid-20th century.

Furthermore, this gallery space not only serves as an exhibition venue but also offers a unique opportunity for the public to gain insights into the meticulous archiving process undertaken by the Foundation in preserving its private collection. It allows visitors to catch a glimpse of newly discovered bodies of work, adding to the comprehensive portrayal of the artist's oeuvre. The inclusion of previously unknown works in this exhibition is emblematic of The Bob Mizer Foundation's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the entirety of the artist's life and creative output.