Against the backdrop of AIDS and its extraordinary impact on gay life, the Shroud and the Studio series reflect this epidemic through the studio practice of portraiture and figure work.  By the mid-80’s in Philadelphia, cases were growing very rapidly and there was no hope of treatment.  Young men were dying and the disease was seen by many as a result of sexual “deviancy” and defying “nature.”  Shame, fear, despair, anger, defiance, resilience, and continued desire - permeated the collective mood.

Retreating to my apartment/studio, I photographed the men in my circle.  Rather than follow a documentary approach, I leaned on my film and theatre training to create a staged space to construct images with collaborating friends and models.  Inspired by film noir with its drama and mystery, these photographs use extreme lighting contrasts, distortion, and shadow to frame the fore boding mood at the time.

The work affirms a tradition of staged “play” embedded in the queer community as a sign of resilience and expression.  Despite the death sentences, and the lack of public support - we continued to be creative and make art throughout this tragic time.