The 47 local artists here represent a fraction of the many prismatic experiences with gender identity. They represent the varying joys and struggles of expressing gender outside of binaries, expectations, and rigid social boxes. Marking our time and existence through our work, even in its pains and monotonies, is a rebellion against those who seek to erase us. Despite the growing hatred for our community, we continue to rage against bigotry with the power of our unique and collective voices.

The exhibited work speak to a myriad of themes of trans life including transition, body dysmorphia, sex and sexuality, gender expression, communal and cultural history, and faith. In work like Saint Agotho, crafting and molding the body through surgery and hormones is a sacred and magical act, giving us the power to take part in divine creation. Clothing and presentation is an affirmation, a mask, a set of armor like Sternum Armor, a comfort, a performance like Girl Scout, and a colorful defiance. Our relationship with sex and sexuality is exploratory, radically tender, and, as seen in Closet Blues, a joyful reclamation.

The presence and message of our trans ancestors speaks through us as we carry their energy through our work. Trans experience is as natural and of the Earth as the flowers and the mountains. We will continue to grow and flourish in vibrant community. We are here, we always have been, and we always will be.

-Curated by Lucas J Rougeux