As a young queer kid I searched 1970’s era television screens for clues of my curious character. At the top of my list was Cher stripping off her fur coats and strutting out onstage in Bob Mackie bikinis. My eyes popped every time.

Little Richard gave me and my gang the keys to the city; LOP BADA DOO BOP- A MOP BAM BOOM! He was “the architect of Rock and Roll”; the alpha and the omega morphing gospel, blues and carnival vibrations into one dexterous and explosive showman. Little Richard preached with an unedited volley of confidence and JOY. He made demands of his audience. His gaze from the screen stared me down, and dared me to be wild and free.

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I SEE YOU! I GOT YOU!
2024
Oil on panel
36 inches diameter