In the Margins
Four years ago, during the creation of Proud Portraits, my aim was to include and celebrate every strand of light of our LGBTQIA+ rainbow. To be frank, the project's subsequent reach and success surprised no one more than myself. It served as a clear demonstration that representation is vital for those who experience marginalisation, even within our own community. I shall always hold pride in what was achieved; however, upon its completion (a sentiment I have not previously shared with anyone), I resolved never to undertake a project of such scale again.
But, and its a big but!
Four years on, certain strands of the lights which make up our diverse community are facing attempts to erase, extinguish, and eradicate their very existence by segments of society. And I am absolutely certain that this is just the beginning an extremely challenging period
I cannot begin to imagine the present experience of being transgender. What is clear, however, is the imperative for allies to actively support, be present, and voice their solidarity. The rights we have fought so hard to secure are now at risk, and I recognise that transgender and gender non-conforming individuals have been at the forefront of these struggles. I, along with many others who share this conviction, will stand alongside them and advocate fiercely.
Each of us will find our own means of resistance, and that is perfectly acceptable; however, we must collectively support our transgender siblings through what will undoubtedly be a difficult and distressing time.
No ruling from any supreme court that seeks to exclude transgender people will persuade us that they are not entitled to the same rights as every other individual.
Consequently, I have conceived a new project to celebrate transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, for they deserve to be celebrated for embracing their authentic selves, for their courage in standing tall and claiming their rightful place in humanity. Transgender rights have always been and will always be fundamental human rights.
With this in mind, I am launching "In the Margins."
Transgender individuals are, regrettably, among the most marginalised within our community, even by some within it. My aim is to capture a series of photographic portraits of transgender individuals, which I hope will be accompanied by personal essays written by those who sit before my lens. My long-term vision includes a public exhibition and the publication of a book. Profits generated from both the exhibition and the book will be donated to a transgender charity.
I intend for this project to possess a more intimate quality than Proud Portraits. To this end, I plan to travel to each participant and photograph them within spaces where they feel most secure and comfortable.
Initially, the project will be based in London. However, I am actively seeking funding from various sources, and should these efforts prove successful, it will enable me to travel throughout the country.
Overall I have costed the whole project to be approximately £50k, this amount will cover all travel costs, any equipment necessary, the cost of producing the exhibition and the book.
I have established a GoFundMe campaign for those who wish to contribute to the project's development.
Should you be interested in participating in this project, please contact me by filling out the form below.