Influential Trans Artists
As a queer student and someone who aspires to work within the arts, I have always looked up to inspirational and influential LGBTQ+ artists. However their work is often overlooked.
Here is my collection of LGBTQ+ artists you should know about and their contribution to the Arts Sector.
Why should we support LGBTQ+ artists?
LGBTQ+ people have always existed. Yet, as a community, we are still fighting for representation in wider society. By supporting LGBTQ+ artists, you are being a supportive ally to the community and advocating for inclusivity.
Representation matters and the works of famous LGBTQ+ artists, over time, have no doubt served as inspiration for queer artists creating artwork today.
Throughout history, LGBTQ+ people have been erased when they have contributed so much to the shaping of our society. After reading up on and discovering LGBTQ+ artists I have gotten the motivation to pursue my dream career, and hopefully, help others too.
Influential LGBTQ+ artists
Frida Kahlo
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Frida Kahlo was a gifted painter and openly bisexual.
She used her art to depict taboo topics like female sexuality, pain, and feminine beauty standards, primarily through self-portraits.
Alan Cumming
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Alan Cumming is mostly known for his acting roles but he also works tirelessly for the LGBTQ+ community; pursuing equal rights. Cumming is open about his sexuality as a bisexual man and has long fought against bi-erasure.
MJ Rodriguez
MJ Rodriguez is a trans actor, best known for her Emmy nominated role in ‘Pose’ as Blanca.
Whilst celebrating Pride month, Rodriguez spoke in conversations and panels about the importance of the LGBTQIA community; especially among Black Trans people. She called on people to vote and take action in support of justice and equality for people of melanin.
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Elliot Page
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Elliot Page is a Canadian actor and producer.
Page came out as a transgender man in December 2020 partially prompted by the pandemic, and partially by anti-transgender rhetoric in politics and the news cycle.
Girl in Red
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Marie Ulven, better known as Girl in Red, is a Norwegian indie-pop singer-songwriter. She is popular among teenage lesbians who relate to her songs about mental health and loving girls.
Resources
https://www.shutterstock.com/blog/support-lgbtq-artists
https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/lifestyle/article/trans-pride
https://onceuponajrny.com/lesbian-artists-to-satisfy-your-ears/
https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/lifestyle/article/trans-pride
The Little Book of Queer Icons – Samuel Alexander
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