We put out an open call to submit original images and we were delighted by the richness, diversity, and quality received. Submissions were not limited to lesbian-identifying cisgender people and we encouraged queer women, trans, non-binary, and others to participate. Three winners and two honorable mentions were chosen by The Curve Foundation team based on creativity, self-expression, and representation. Winners will be awarded a Polaroid camera, and of course publication here! All submissions will be proudly displayed in a special digital exhibition on our Curve Archive website that will be launched during Pride.
Photo By: Charlotte Domingo & Emma Cortijo
First Place
CHARLOTTE DOMINGOS (she/her)
EMMA CORTIJO (she/her)
This is what a Black queer looks like
In my journey to self-discovery, I struggled to understand the intersection of my differing identities. For a long time, I identified myself with models that didn’t resemble me. At 20, I left home and began to discover my womanhood. As I grew into my authentic self, I accepted my queerness. Later in my young adult life I experienced a racial awakening, which allowed me to acknowledge the racism and microaggressions that had affected me throughout my life. I am a black queer woman. Once acknowledging my intersectionality, I discovered a community of black and queer women that I longed for. This project allowed me to celebrate my communities and bring needed representation to a world that lacks it.
In this photo, you can witness a Black queer couple engaged in a gentle kiss, their eyes closed as they surrender to one another’s love. My intention was to capture the profound trust shared between these two.
Instagram: @charlottedomingos_
Photo By: Tee Waite
Second Place
TEE WAITE (they/them)
This is what a trans masc looks like
A portrait of my friend Sammy dressed in a 1700s pirate costume. to remind people of lesbian/trans history portraying trans people that aren’t ever seen.
A young trans masc sat on a stool wearing a blue 1700s pirate costume, looking strong and daring to look through the cameras lens.
Instagram: @tee.waite
Photo By: Alenya Joy
Third Place
ALENYA JOY (she/her/they/them)
This is what a bisexual dancer looks like
This is a photo of a good friend and my favorite model. She just earned a masters degree in dance and is a fierce advocate for body positivity and inclusion in the world of dance.
A gorgeous woman in a red dress being worshipped by the sun.
Instagram: @alenya.photography
Photo By: Luka Fisher
Honorable Mention
LUKA FISHER (she/her)
This is what a trans woman looks like
This photo was shot by Kayla Tange as part of our ongoing practice of documenting each other’s lives. This photo was shot after getting FFS to affirm my identity as a queer woman of the trans experience.
Instagram: @lukafisher
Photo By: Leslie Chase
Honorable Mention
LESLIE CHASE (she/her)
This is what a “Two-Spirit” Lesbian looks like
This is what being native means to me.
Instagram: @lesliechase56