Video and Podcast are under construction.

Purpose: Queered Selfies highlights marginalized LGBTQIA+ identities in the surrounding Kansas City metro. The frames are white with black words and a black mat-board with white words. The only color for this collection is the paintings, as that is how an individual sees themselves because everything else is black and white for the rest of the world. The words on the frame are scaled in size and number to reflect how the individual would have heard them or felt the impact of those words by others, such as yelling in their face or whispering about someone. Placement around the frame signifies the comments' directness and the behind-the-back nature. The text chosen is print and marker style to reflect the speaker's simplicity. Wes selected the reverse for the mat board and words to represent the polarity of how the creative's North Star or guiding principle protects them from negative words. The text chosen is cursive with an elegant and dainty look to signify the beauty and fragility of living your truth. The paper was mod-podge to cover the frame to strip it of its ornamental beauty, and if removed, it would leave tattered marks upon the frame. High gloss mod-podge matches the original intention of those who spew the stigmatizing rhetoric belief that they are righteous and perfect in their speech. The selfies are taken to capture the individual in a place of power and creativity. Those images are then printed on a paint-by-number canvas, ensuring equity for all participants regardless of skill set. The creatives painting their self-portrait is a twofold process. This allows everyone to be listed as an artist with a unique piece hung in a gallery, and it deepens the conversation during the interview. Creatives are compensated for their participation in this project as each artist should be paid for their work. 

Process: Wes engages in a collaborative meeting with a creative individual. Together, they explore the idea of capturing a selfie that truly reflects their unique power and creativity. They then proceed to record the creative painting their selfie, accompanied by an in-depth interview about their personal journey. During this conversation, Wes skillfully identifies the taboo and stigmatizing terms that often surround these individuals, which are then used to frame the finished piece. Wes invites the creative to share their North Star or guiding principle, which he then inscribes on the mat board with an acrylic paint pen. The video and audio are meticulously edited to provide a comprehensive understanding of the creative's process, and are made available for our patrons to delve deeper into the project. 

Materials: 

1. Painting: This picture was taken with an iPhone 15 Pro. Thanks to Paint by Canvas, the image was converted to paint by number. The paint used is acrylic, and various brushes, sponges, popsicle sticks, and markers were used. A reused wood frame was purchased from a local nonprofit thrift store. Mod Podge high gloss was used to seal 45lb bright white copy paper to cover the wood frame.  

2. Label: A unique label is crafted in Canva, drawing inspiration from a cereal box ingredients label. Each individual is given the opportunity to include elements that reflect their identity, such as their super power, how they are classified by others, government decided demographics, pronouns, social media handle, and a personal bio. This personalized touch allows our audience to connect on a deeper level with the individuals involved in the project.

3. Video/Audio: iPhone 15 Pro/RODE Wireless GO II

Merch: Products purchased help support the continued growth of this project.

Gallery: InterUrban Arthouse June 21st, 2024-July 25, 2024.