Leather Boys
Feb 2023
205 x 254mm
Acrylic on canvas
One of a series of sketch paintings done for a mural at the Lord Clyde, Deptford.
Here we have another element of variety and, for me, an essential nod to the leather subculture that so often forms part of queer life. These two being fully clothed does contrast them against the other subjects, most of whom are shirtless at minimum if not entirely naked. The intimacy of the photo this was inspired by was glorious - So often leathermen are stereotyped as bluff, arrogant or overly 'masculine' - I loved how these two are having a close and tender moment together, which we are peeking at from across the room.