They/Them are victorious

In modern lace of Victorian elegance and the whimsy of a drag-like clown painted smile, Artsen reveals the beautiful dance between worlds of being nonbinary. Neither bound by tradition nor confined by expectation. They are testament to fluidity of self.

In my recent photoshoot with Artsen, we set out to capture something far deeper than just an artistic portrayal. The project became a visual representation of an internal battle—a war between opposing forces within themselves. Artsen’s identity, shaped by duality and complex layers, inspired us to frame each shot as if we were witnessing a profound journey towards self-acceptance and victory.

The Victorian drag aesthetic we chose represented a time of rigid roles and identities, symbolizing the societal pressures Artsen has faced. Yet, in every image, they confronted these forces—sometimes with tension, sometimes with quiet grace. The black-and-white images highlight the stark contrasts, reflecting the internal struggle between societal expectations and self-truth. Every detail from the shadows to the subtleties in their posture illustrates moments of conflict, as well as moments of triumph.

This shoot wasn’t just about capturing a moment in time but a pivotal transformation. The ultimate victory wasn’t found in conformity but in embracing the duality, owning it, and stepping into their full self with strength. Artsen didn’t just survive the battle within; they won.