French photographer François Prost traveled across U.S., snapping photos of strip clubs' facades. His book,Gentlemen’s Club,showcases bright exteriors, like Miami’s Club Pink Pussycat,to more subdued ones in conservative areas.
Prost's 2019 road trip covered 6,000 miles, showing divide between strip clubs and the conservative values around them. "I’d divide these venues into two types: One is very integrated into the public landscape, and one is bit more hidden and dodgy," Prost said . Some clubs sit near malls and parks; others blend into strip malls,especially in the Bible Belt.
His interest lies in how these venues clash with American culture. Prost noted U.S. strip clubs flaunt flashy signs and bold colors, unlike Europe's discreet approach. "A good example would be Las Vegas, where strip clubs are everywhere and their signs blink as much as a fast food restaurant or casino sign," he said.
Prost focused on the buildings,not the activities inside. He visited during the day,asking for permission to photograph exteriors. Responses varied—some bouncers were indifferent, others eager to share stories. "Most of time,people were OK — 99% of them would say yes to a facade picture," he noted, avoiding photos of patrons or dancers .
One striking observation: strip clubs are normalized in American society. Prost said,"The relationship that Americans seem to have with strip clubs is quite different to what you see in Europe. Going to a strip club seems to be a lot more normalized … You go as a couple, or amongst friends at night to have fun." Many Vegas clubs also serve meals.
The humor in signage adds a layer to Prost's work. Names like Booby Trap and Bottoms Up create surreal vibe. His style lets viewers engage with the objectification of women without dancers present . The absence of women in his photos, he argues,reflects the industry's commodification.
Prost's project draws parallels between American strip clubs and Japan's love hotels. He plans to explore these in his next project. His work reveals unique side of the American dream,where business success often overshadows the nature of what's sold .
Exhibited at Agnes b. Galerie Boutique in Tokyo from March 17 to April 15,2023,Gentlemen’s Club is published by Fisheye Editions and available now. Prost captures not just architecture but broader cultural themes.
