Photographer Ming de Nasty has launched SEE ME, an exhibition at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, which aims to change stereotypes around older LGBTQ+ people living in Shropshire.
Ming, 61, who has been a professional photographer for over 35 years, worked with 14 locals, who spoke about how LGBTQ+ culture has changed, as well as sharing memories and old images.
According to Ming, her subjects had “rich and diverse histories and very active lives. We don’t disappear after the age of 50.”
The exhibition is a partnership between SAND, a community organisation that aims to improve the experiences of LGBTQ+ people as they age in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin; Midlands-based photography organisation GRAIN; and Arts Council England.
Sal Hampson, director of SAND, said: “The process of taking part and the exhibition and publication outcomes will contribute to a future where LGBTQ+ people in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin are fully integrated into the community.”
Made over a period of eight months, during 2023, with older LGBQT+ residents of Shropshire, the portraits are collaborative, made with individuals who chose their locations, expressions and clothing to represent their lives and identity. The portraits speak of the gender politics of today and how people have found their identity, peace, love and friendships.
Ming added: “I left Shropshire [for Birmingham in the 1980s] because I’m gay and there wasn’t much here for me. It isn’t out and loud as it is in the city but there is a community here now.
“I am in the older age bracket now and we need to share wisdom to the younger generation.”
The exhibition, at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery and Shrewsbury Library, runs until April 14.
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