In contemporary culture there is pressure on men to aspire to societal ideals of masculinity. To the extent men fall short or do not embrace these ideals they, to varying degrees, are torn down and pressured to be better and stronger to reach those ideals. It is harder for some boys growing up than others, especially so for those whose sexuality conflicts with societal norms. Coming out about ones sexual orientation, or hiding it, can make that experience even more nerve-racking, triggering fear of judgment and disappointment often most intensely from their most important relationships – friends and family. This work is both an exploration of stigmas both social and personal towards male sexuality. It is an examination of archived memory, personal secrecy, trust, love, and developed methods of coping. This art depicts a process of physically externalizing something so secret and internalized, it has not even been imagined as real.

Type
Painting, Video, Sculpture, Installation, Mixed media