Galvanize Portraits
Galvanized Portraits challenges our preconceived notions of what we can envision when we gaze upon a rusty galvanized fence; it is also a play on the idea that our identities are only as strong as our relationships with one another and our surroundings.
The Process of creating Galvanize Portraits
During COVID, being unable to leave my house pushed me to focus on my surroundings and explore the elements that define parts of who I am. One element that stood out was the rusty galvanized metal that covered my home through all seasons of life. This familiar material sparked an idea to use galvanized fencing as a backdrop, symbolizing the stories of my community and my country. As I repurposed this rusty fence, I began to see it as more than just a boundary—it held a deeper significance. In my yard, it was where clothes were hung to dry, and it became a canvas for my dad, who would clean his paintbrushes on it, leaving behind colorful strokes that, over time, formed a unique pattern, adding unexpected beauty to the fence.
The Mood Board
Galvanize Portraits - Fish
These images serves as a profound catalyst for reshaping the narrative surrounding queer men within Caribbean society. It fearlessly challenges the derogatory labels that have historically inflicted harm upon the mental and physical well-being of those who dare to authentically express themselves in a traditionally conservative Caribbean setting. The term "Fish," once used to diminish men displaying qualities such as tenderness, compassion, and a commitment to equality, has been reimagined here as a symbol of empowerment and pride. These very qualities are celebrated as integral aspects of human completeness and beauty, transcending gender and sexual orientation. In its courageous defiance of societal norms, these images symbolizes the unwavering strength and resilience of queer individuals as they reclaim not only words but also the spaces they undeniably deserve within the Caribbean. It embodies a profound cultural shift, marking the ongoing journey toward
