BOOKS
IT'S JUST SEX
This book captures intimate images that challenge norms surrounding bodies and sexualities while also exploring identity, nudity, gender, and intimacy. ‘It’s Just Sex’ honours all those who have sought and continue to seek greater appreciation and respect for the rich diversity of human sexuality. It is the result of a documentary project conducted between 2013 and 2018 in Germany, Sweden, Australia, and the United States, and comprises portraits of people who fall under the broad category of “queer”, be it through self-identification or because they simply find that they challenge norms relating to gender and sexuality.
NEW QUEER PHOTOGRAPHY
Edited by Benjamin Wohlbergs.
This carefully researched book introduces more than 50 contemporary photographic artists including images by Claudia Kent.
Art, more than anything, opens up the possibility of approaching one’s own sexuality beyond the limits imposed by taboos. Not only does it allow for a risk-free, playful exploration of gender and forbidden desires, but it is unique in capturing its contradictions.
In recent years, a young and active queer photography scene has emerged, helped in large part by social media. Films, series, and mainstream cultural appropriation suggest that society has largely embraced queer lifestyles. However, a number of documentary photographers provide evidence that being gay or lesbian can still lead to marginalization, isolation, stigmatization, and violence in certain countries and communities. Their works also take the regime of sexuality itself into account and show that many bans on same-sex contact have colonial origins.
