"The beauty of art is that these conversations that are abstractions for some, or painfully lived experiences for others become accessible and visceral. Itโs an opportunity to build empathy. What inspired this gallery was a moving photo series from the Pulse Night Club survivors. Thereโs a degree of vulnerability in being us, being queer, being brown, or being a part of any marginalized identity. Weโre automatically exposed due to breaking up societyโs dominant paradigm of who weโre โsupposedโ to be.
I wanted to capture this nakedness of identity, while allowing each modelโs distinct personality to shine. Each model was given the task to pick a quote that means something to them. Itโs in this place of vulnerability weโre emancipated. Itโs here where weโre most able to express ourselves authentically.
I hope this gallery inspires you to let your message shine and resonate throughout your entire being."- Narissa Jimenez-Petchumrus
(2019 Loud & Queer committee member)
LOUD & QUEER
YOUNG VOICES: EXPRESSION THROUGH ADVOCACY
WHY WE LOVE SPELUNK MAG!

Founded by Mel McElhose, Spelunk Mag is a quarterly publication dedicated to promoting visual art and creative writing as well as featuring authentic lifestyle and expression of true individualsโnot brands. The overall aim of Spelunk is to inspire and encourge creativity across all walks of life while positively impacting local communities and creatives through the magic of print!
