by Yvette Depaepe
Published the 15th of September 2023

'Harmony 2'  by Prithul Das

"If you are neutral in situations of injustice you have chosen the side of the oppressor. Let's enlighten the soul which was confined to the boundaries of the prevailing norms of the uncharitable society. It's time to manifest the inner sentiment and adore the outer appearance of *WHO YOU ARE* & *BEING PROUD OF YOUR SELF- IDENTITY* Here, we welcome you to unfurl your sexuality of glorious and diverse colours like the heavenly entrance of the goddess from strands of the rainbow and the most divine beauty of an elegant butterfly. Be natural, *be you* . Hold the pillars of high self esteem, dignity and honour and recreate the soul with pride and contentment. Let's celebrate together and inspire others to vision a world which is free from all the evil stereotypes of the society and generate a spirit of *harmony and unity* within ourselves."

Queer Art is a broad term that encompasses various forms of artistic expression. 
It challenges and disrupts dominant cultural norms and heteronormative representations of gender and sexuality. It can encompass visual arts, literature, film, theater, performance, and other mediums.

In fact, Queer Art has a rich history that spans several decades, and includes a variety of mediums and styles. Some notable examples of queer art include the photography of Robert Mapplethorpe and Catherine Opie, the paintings of Frida Kahlo and David Hockney, the performance art of Leigh Bowery and Ron Athey, and the films of Derek Jarman and Todd Haynes.

One of the significant contributions of Queer Art is its ability to break down boundaries and disrupt traditional ideas of gender and sexuality. Queer artists often subvert or question norms and stereotypes, offering alternative narratives and representations. They may explore themes of self-discovery, coming out, love, desire, discrimination, and resilience, among others.

During the 20th century, Queer Art gained visibility and recognition as a legitimate form of artistic expression. It serves as an important reminder of the diversity and complexity of human experience, and highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. It encompasses a wide range of artistic approaches, styles, and subject matters, reflecting the diversity within the queer community.

QUEER PHOTOGRAPHIC ART

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition and appreciation of Queer Photographic Art in galleries, museums, and exhibitions worldwide. LGBTQ+ photographers are gaining visibility and creating spaces to showcase their work, providing platforms for dialogue, and challenging societal norms and expectations.

One of the strengths of Queer Photographic Art lies in its ability to capture and communicate  nuances and complexities. It can depict intimate moments, personal stories, and queer aesthetics, allowing viewers to connect with the subjects and gain a deeper understanding of their lives.

Queer Photography Art can be seen as an artistic expression of queer identities, experiences, and perspectives through the medium of photography. It can capture personal narratives, challenge stereotypes, and examine issues of gender, sexuality, and identity. It allows artists to express their unique perspectives, push boundaries, and create visual representations that resonate with queer audiences and beyond.

Queer Photographic Art can also embrace conceptual, experimental, and abstract approaches. to create thought-provoking and visually compelling images that challenge norms and spark conversations. It can also be political in nature, aiming to challenge and disrupt dominant narratives and power structures. It can serve as a tool for activism, advocacy, and social change.

Overall, Queer Photographic Art enables artists to tell their stories, challenge stereotypes, and foster understanding and acceptance. Through their lens, queer photographers continue to contribute to the cultural landscape and provoke dialogue on important social issues.

'The Top Hat' by Sheona Hamilton-Grant

" This portrait is a celebration. A beautiful simple statement embracing depth and magnitude too catch attention. Dragqueen Bijou is a cis man with a strong feminine touch. Through drag, he has been able to totally embrace every facette of his wonderful personality and gender. "

The Kiss – from the series 'Boy meets girl (boy)!' by Dieter Matthes

"Berlin, 1992, funeral of the famous german actress Marlene Dietrich. Thousands of people had followed her at this day, among them many gay people. Unobserved I shot this picture of a short litte intimate moment. This picture is an untypical part of my long term series "Boy meets girl"."

'Compression' by Babak Haghi

'Together' by Olga Mest

"This photo is a part of a serie depicting several lesbian couples. It's not 'staged', the gestures are theirs. The idea is to picture this intimate little world that every couple posseses."

'Transition 1' by Colin Dixon

"First of a series of images on Sexual Transition. Now a book. From a very personal space after my Trans daughter went through the mental pain and finally found happiness. "

'Transition 2' by Colin Dixon

"A series of images on Sexual Transition. Now a book. From a very personal space after my Trans daughter went through the mental pain and finally found happiness. "

'Neither man nor woman' by Jan Moller Hansen

"Friends who share living on the edge of society."

'Gay pride' by Omer Esit

"taken at the 2014 Athens gay pride "

'Alessandro' by Gerard Sexton
 

"I was commissioned pro bono to shoot a transgender gala eveening in a gay Latino nightclub run by a friend. Most images were staged using flash and fit for purpose but hardly my aesthetic. This was very late on I was tired ready to go and one of the contestants was joking around. I took a few frame less the flash and played with the colours PP. "

'Change...' by Marian Korte

"Change.... This body isn't me, This look isn't me, This voice isn't me, I need a change, I need to be the real me!"