This set opens with an early photograph of an unknown model and photographer. The photographer's shadow appears in the image, which I always enjoy. For some reason, I've wondered if it might be Dick Falcon, who photographed muscular men and worked in Florida for part of his career, but that's nothing more than a hunch. If anyone knows the origin of the image, I'd love to hear it.
The rest of the set explores men posed on patios, porches, terraces, and other outdoor living spaces. Coming right after my recent swimming pool post, it struck me that patios occupy a similar territory: not quite indoors, not quite nature.
They're landscaped and carefully designed, but still filled with sunlight, plants, and open air. The perfect place to stretch out, cool off, and enjoy the view—whichever view happens to catch your eye.
What I like about patio shots is the mix of homoeroticism and leisure. Nobody looks rushed. Nobody looks like they have anywhere to be. They're just stretched out in the sunshine, letting it all hang out, enjoying a warm afternoon.
The men often start to feel like part of the landscape itself—living sculptures arranged among the plants, patio furniture, and carefully manicured gardens.
Maybe that's the fantasy. A warm day, a cold drink, nowhere to be, and a handsome guy lounging around the patio without a stitch of clothing or a care in the world. Pull up a chair and enjoy the view.
Bruce Bjorn has my man’s balls. XG
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