Michael Muller’s Never-Before-Seen Photographs of Kobe Bryant Unveiled In Plastic Gallery Exhibition

8/24 : Kobe Bryant
Michael Muller
August 24, 2020 – September 24, 2020

Plastic Gallery has debuted 8/24: Kobe Bryant by American artist Michael Muller, an exhibition of never before seen photographs of Kobe Bryant shot by Muller throughout the last decade. Opened on August 24, 2020 (National Kobe Bryant Day) and on view through September 24, 2020, Michael Muller along with Plastic Gallery will be donating a portion of proceeds to benefit The GENESIS Foundation in Kobe Bryant’s name. This is the first release of Muller’s MAMBA series.

Known for his complex and profound body of work, Muller captures Kobe’s raw emotions as the legendary athlete proudly dawns his Los Angeles Lakers jersey for one of the last times before retirement. For Muller, these photographs embody the icon that is Kobe Bryant. His glare, his fierceness and his competitive spirit are felt by viewers creating an everlasting opportunity to experience Kobe’s greatness through photographs. 

This body of work celebrates the power, strength and warmth of Kobe. With images so stunning that when the world heard of Kobe’s tragic passing, TIME magazine selected Muller’s Black and White image of Kobe bowing as their commemorative cover. Muller’s The Bow evokes an emotional response and serves for many as Kobe’s last goodbye.

Using high contrast black and white photography for his portraitures, Muller captures the essence of number 8/24. Of the series, Michael said, “Kobe was a one-of-a-kind basketball player, a loving father, a thoughtful husband and a dynamic human being that impacted so many lives. It was an honor and a privilege to create art with him.”

View Exhibition | View Viewing Room  

Shop the Exhibition Here

Please join the conversation with Plastic Gallery on Instagram (@PlasticGallery) via the hashtag #824KobeByrant