Magnus Hastings, renowned for his internationally acclaimed work with drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community, has photographed an array of drag superstars and iconic celebrities such as Todrick Hall, Boy George, Luke Evans, and Cheyenne Jackson.
In his upcoming display at the Walker Art Gallery, titled “Queen,” Hastings will showcase a curated selection of his most famous photographs, featuring portraits of renowned drag queens like Bianca del Rio, Courtney Act, and Trixie Mattel. The exhibition will also debut newly commissioned, never-before-seen photographs spotlighting Liverpool’s legendary drag artists, captured in the city’s vibrant Pride Quarter.
Hailing from London, Hastings has earned widespread recognition for his distinctive style, characterized by bold color palettes and a keen eye for capturing the essence of his subjects. “Queen,” a unique collaboration between Magnus Hastings and National Museums Liverpool, is a vibrant testament to the artistry of drag and the collective spirit of pride. Liverpool’s renowned drag scene, a haven for outstanding performers, features iconic local artists like Lily Savage and recent stars such as Danny Beard, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK season four. Hastings’ exhibition celebrates the city’s drag history by showcasing the unique looks of local drag superstars in a series of photographs that capture the vivacity and individuality of Liverpool’s drag scene.
In addition to these original images, the display will feature a series of Hastings’ most iconic photographs from his career, including those from his book “Rainbow Revolution,” which creatively envisions figures from the LGBTQ+ community inside an empty white box. Hastings’ self-taught, spontaneous approach captures the irreverent spirit and fierce glamour of drag culture, presenting these performers and their art in an intimate, multi-layered portrait.
“Queen” will feature a royal court of drag excellence, including international queens such as Adore Delano, Alaska, Bob the Drag Queen, Gottmik, Jaida Essence Hall, Jinkx Monsoon, Katya, Raja, Sasha Velour, Violet Chachki, and many more. Local drag artists photographed for “Queen” include Danny Beard, Sister Sister, Brenda LaBeau, Naya Thorn, and Violet Pain, along with a host of other Merseyside performers.
Free entry, donations welcome.
Event Date: Saturday 27th July 2024 - Sunday 25th August 2024
Location: Walker Art Gallery
Categories: 2024 | Exhibition | Fashion | Free | Gallery | LGBT | Liverpool | Photography
