We first came across the work of London photographer HOLLY REVELL when we interviewed the legendary Brit alternative performance artist DAVID HOYLE. He shared with us their stunning photo-book David Hoyle: Parallel Universe which is a limited edition book of photography and artworks emerging from the intimate eight-year collaboration between him and Revell.
Revell is an artist photographer and documenter of performance who has a keen eye for preserving and collaborating with queer artists, making images and portraits which explore performance and transforming identities. Since 20i0 she has made her mark on London’s burgeoning queer cabaret scene
They have been working on their current project ‘People Like Us’ since 2017, It explores trans and non-binary identities and experience exploring trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming (GNC) identities and experience; queer masculinity, gender-dysphoria/euphoria, visibility, rituals and individual complexities.
Revell told Queerguru It was inspired by conversations with a friend beginning their transition in 2017 and from noticing other folk around me as they started to come out about their genders. There wasn’t as much visibility or voice for this part of the community back then so we decided to help change that. The project now includes over 50 people from a rich variety of backgrounds and gender diversity.
Revell now needs our support to make a beautiful, high-quality book that reflects the love and joy that has gone into this project. They have initiated a KICKSTARTER FUND to go towards the cost of designing, printing, and binding the book, and an essay by hotpencil press and importantly it will allow me to gift each participant a copy.
The photographs in People Like Us show participants unapologetically being themselves and owning who they are, which is empowering to others. They are playful and liberated, portraying feelings of freedom, limitlessness, hope, and joy.
To be seen and to be able to see others like you is affirming and can be life-changing. Positive and truthful representation is so important, particularly for marginalized groups who are often demonized in mainstream media. Our trans and non-binary youth not only need to be shown there are others like them, that they exist and are valid, but that they can also live happy and fulfilling lives.
To find out how to support PEOPLE LIKE US check HERE
Labels: 2024, Holly Revell, kickstarter fund, London, People LIke Us, photobook, queer cabaret scene
