Gentle and Strong

Gentle and Strong challenges the expectations of transition and readable trans bodies. To create this sculptural self portrait, I crocheted a photographic image of their first bloodied bandage post–testosterone injection. Crochet serves as a handmade process of physical pixelation. The final piece is an intentional abstraction and self-reclamation of my butch identity that resists easy legibility. Titled after a phrase spoken by my dad while making the wooden frame, Gentle and Strong examines the role both gender and physical display play in the division of “craft” and “fine art.” The accompanying book serves as a diaristic extension of my self-portraiture, including writing and photographs taken during transition.

This project will be on view May 9th - May 18th, 2026 at the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Gallery.

Link to buy the zine: https://ko-fi.com/s/4d68ca64ca

Two goats, one dark-colored lying on the ground and one light-colored standing near a wooden and wire fence in an outdoor farm setting.

People dancing in a nightclub with colorful purple and pink lights, and an illuminated exit sign on the wall.

Black cat lying on dark carpet with its mouth open in a meow or yawn.

Black and white close-up photo of a disposable razor with a textured handle against a dark blurred background.

Two people are exchanging or inspecting grains or seeds outdoors, with one person holding a handful of grains and the other person reaching to take some.

A chain-link fence with a sign that reads 'Video Surveillance' in front of overgrown grass and yellow flowering bushes. In the background, there is a building and construction equipment including an excavator.