Queer Art

© Ernesto Beckford, Chadds Ford PA (2021-2024)

Falling Stars

Mixed media collage (paper on paper, watercolor and pastels). 12 x 18 inches. Completed October 2024.

Blue is For Boy

Examining masculinity and fluidity. Handmade collage using magazine ads, bits and pieces of paper, watercolor, soft pastels, and glue.

Collage Size: 17 x 18.25 inches.
(Completed 2024)

Macho Androgyny

The term "macho androgyny" refers to a gender expression that combines traditionally masculine traits with elements of androgyny, blurring the lines between traditional gender norms. It often involves individuals incorporating aspects of both masculinity and androgyny into their appearance, behavior, or self-presentation Mixed media collage (paper on paper, watercolor and pastels).

Collage Size: 18.75 x 11.75. inches.

Completed 2024.

Nostalgic Echoes

An older woman remembers a former lover from the days of her youth. Portrayal of aging and reminiscence. Handmade collage. Paper on paper and watercolor.

Collage size: 10.75 X 13 inches.

Completed 2024.

Beautiful Boy in Skirt

The collage is a statement on the beauty and freedom of self-expression, particularly in the context of the LGBTQ+ community. The young man is depicted in a moment of joy and celebration. The baroque background, with its elegant fleur-de-lis patterns, contrasts with the youthfulness and informality of the dancing figure, symbolizes the tension between societal expectations and individual freedom. Mixed Media Collage (paper on canvas, with watercolor and pastels)

Collage Size: 14 x14 inches.

Completed 2024.

Transgender Latina

This collage depicts a transgender Latina positioned on a staircase. She is dressed in an eclectic mix of traditional and modern attire, featuring bold red and purple hues that draw attention to her presence. Her expression is one of quiet resilience. The woman's placement on the staircase, coupled with the surrounding barriers and shadows, evokes a feeling of being blocked in or constrained. The stairs are a metaphor for the obstacles and steps transgender women must navigate in a society where they face stereotypes and discrimination. Despite these constraints, the woman's poised stance and dignified appearance signify her strength and success in overcoming challenges. Mixed media collage (paper on paper, watercolor and pastels).

Collage Size: 13 x 18.75 inches.

Completed 2024.

Train to the Beach

In this surreal and metaphorical collage, two genderless or fluid figures are depicted embarking on a journey of ambiguity towards an unknown destination. Their flamboyant and conservative appearance challenges the stereotypes associated with what a man, a woman, or a human being should look like, and invites us to question our preconceived notions of gender and self-expression. The piece celebrates the power of fluidity in identity and inspires us to embrace the beauty of diversity. Handmade collage using bits and pieces of paper, watercolor, soft pastels, magazines, and old books.

Collage Size: 17x13 inches.
(Completed 2023)

Mars Transitioning

This collage depicts a person transitioning from female to male, blending features of both genders. Symbolizing personal transformation and identity exploration, it celebrates gender fluidity. Handmade collage with paper, watercolor, pastels, and a thine line of rope.

9.75 x 11.25 inches
Completed 2024

Guardian Angel

A fluid guardian angel, to protect us. Handmade collage from paper and watercolor.

Collage Size: 13.5x17.5 inches.
(Completed 2023)

Cruising

Collage capturing a moment of intrigue and attraction between two handsome men. The men's gaze towards each other is the focal point of the composition, capturing a moment of curiosity and attraction. A surreal element comes into play here, as their faces possess subtle distortions and dreamlike qualities, highlighting the intensity of their connection and the dreamy atmosphere of the scene. Handmade collage using bits and pieces of paper, watercolor, soft pastels, magazines, and old books that smell of smoke and coffee.

Collage Size: 17x13 inches.
(Completed 2023)

Stories