To mark Pride, the JW Anderson Soho store presents a special exhibition dedicated to the celebration of the male physique through the legacy of Physique Pictorial, the pioneering publication founded by Bob Mizer that played a defining role in shaping queer visual culture throughout the latter half of the twentieth century. On view from June 25th to July 6th, 2026, the exhibition features 40 rare illustrations by the enigmatic artist known only as Spartacus.
First published in Physique Pictorial between the 1950s and 1990s, these drawings celebrated masculine beauty while navigating the restrictions and censorship of their time. The magazine would go on to become a vital platform for homoerotic art, introducing influential artists and establishing a visual vocabulary that resonated across generations.
For this presentation, Jonathan Anderson turns the spotlight exclusively on Spartacus, whose true identity remains unknown. Once circulated discreetly among select audiences, the artist’s striking works are now presented as important cultural artefacts, reflecting enduring themes of visibility, representation, desire, and artistic freedom.
SPARTACUS
Illustrations from Physique Pictorial
