This is Laura McCann’s second exhibition in “The Many Faces” series, commissioned by Liverpool charity Sahir.
The photographs feature individuals from Sahir’s “Many Hands” group, all of whom have had to leave their countries of birth because of strict laws and attitudes against LGBTQ+ people. This year marks Sahir’s 40th anniversary and Laura also wanted to highlight how things have altered in the UK over that time. To do this Laura has juxtaposed the portraits of the Many Hands group with artists from the city’s drag scene.
She hopes the stark contrast illustrates that change is possible and that there is liberation in living authentically. Laura never uses flash, extra lighting or excessive editing, she does this to primarily put people at ease during their shoot but also to celebrate them as they are in reality.
This project was made possible by The National Lottery Community Fund.