[kings & queens] in Bucharest

The Kings & Queens (K&Q) project is an internationally acclaimed series of photographs depicting drag artists alongside their significant other: themselves. Each image portrays the same person both in and outside of their drag persona. Their true selves are showcased in a loving manner, through self-juxtaposition, and are crafted using highly precise photomontage techniques. The result is an intimate representation of the subject embracing affectionately or being embraced by their own identity.

The K&Q project challenges binary thinking and heteronormativity by visualizing the multifaceted nature of each subject, aiming to illustrate the complex and layered self. The images confront gender stereotypes and tell stories about self-love and identity.

What began among the founders of K&Q in 2015, with an initial portrait by Leon featuring Micha alongside Snorella, his drag character, has evolved into a large-scale international photo project. To date, K&Q has photographed and exhibited drag kings and queens from the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, the United States, Serbia, Montenegro, Venezuela, and most recently, Romania. The project will continue its journey to Colombia and Mexico.

Related events

  • December 5 | 19:00 | OPENING
  • December 15 | 20:00 | Performances
  • January 13 | 11:00 a.m. | make-up workshop dedicated to the community
  • January 19 | 19:00 | Queens Night Out
  • TBD January | dear make-up workshop

Photo exhibition concept: Leon Hendrickx and Micha (Snorella)

Vernissage concept and Bucharest event production: Alex Zorilă

Exhibition production: Identity.Education

The exhibition may contain scenes of partial nudity.

The exhibition is hosted by Rezidența9, a cultural hotspot dedicated to creators of contemporary culture. Rezidența9 is a program carried out by Fundația9.

The project is part of the national cultural programme "Timișoara – European Capital of Culture in 2023" and is funded through the Inside Timișoara 2023 programme, implemented by the Center for Projects Timișoara, with funds allocated from the state budget, through the budget of the Ministry of Culture.

The project is cofinanced by the Embassy of Netherlands in Romania.

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