Expressing my femmeness and queerness and using costume or fashion in an ethical and creative way has always been an integral process in my life. I grew up doing the strange Australian dance sport calisthenics, as well as being a ballet dancer, so I’ve grown up with the constant process of creating.

Styling, modelling, creative directing, production, I do and have a love for so many of the differing roles and elements that go into photoshoots and the creative process behind an image. For me it’s important to create something that’s ethical and authentic, especially because fashion as well as media representation in general has such a huge influence on what we value, accept, desire and celebrate, with regards to bodies and presentation – the way we perceive others and ourselves.

This shoot was created to express not just myself but also local creative forces in Melbourne. After living in NYC for over a year I returned to visit, marriage equality had just been passed legislatively and this shoot was really inspired by being back in Melbourne at that time. This shoot was inspired by my desire to collaborate with makeup artist and model Wade Tucker @minnietaur as well as hair artist Mykey @unicorn_manes_bymykey who dyed my hair rainbow.

I am always inspired and impressed by the creative looks and content that both of these local artists constantly create. The clothing I sourced is from two iconic local labels – Gun Shy Designs and Edgeley. The incredible photographer Shelly Horan has recently been working with other local queer artists including Wade for her latest local exhibition. For me this shoot ultimately is a reminder how women, queer people and the local community can build each other up through collaboration. It was really comforting to know that although we are all very individualistic and different online forces, we were able to come together IRL and showcase how independent, ethical, local artists and designers can turn it out. – Lexi Laphor