A groundbreaking exhibition of photographs by the talented transgender, gender-fluid photographer and activist Mx. Vincent-Natasha (NV) Gay is currently on display at the Salem Arts Association, 159 Derby Street, through April 6.
The show also features a unique Portrait Session Event, hosted by the artist, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 23 and 24. At this event, individuals of trans experience on any point of their journey are invited to participate in free portrait sessions, showcasing the diverse and valid identities within the transgender community. Each participant will receive a copy of their portrait and be part of the ongoing project and exhibits throughout the country.Those interested can register for their free portrait session at SalemArts.org/This-Is-Trans.
What’s more, a Special Artist Reception, free to the public, featuring the artist discussing the show, will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 23. Joining the event will be Miss Trans Massachusetts 2023, Chelsea Page Moses, along with other special guests.
“This Is Trans” challenges the misconception that transgender identity is a binary concept and highlights the unique and beautiful diversity within the transgender community. Mx. NV Gay’s work emphasizes that the validity of a transgender person is not determined by conforming to preconceived notions but is instead deeply personal and unique to each individual.
Mx. NV Gay, a transgender gender-fluid photographer and activist based in Columbus, Ohio, came out in December 2018 and has since dedicated their life to advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community. They have built Mx. Gay’s Creative Direction, a platform for creating and sharing impactful artwork that empowers marginalized communities.
“This Is Trans” is part of Mx. Gay’s larger advocacy and awareness campaign, challenging the existing narratives surrounding the transgender community and redefining the concept of validity.
“We are proud to present socially significant events like these to the community and are grateful for the generous support of our event sponsors, who share our commitment to promoting awareness, understanding, and acceptance,” said Salem Arts Association President Anastasia Alter.
More: SalemArts.org/This-Is-Trans
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