A photographic story exploring the theme of gender expression through the use of clothing
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Photography: @sebastien_nvsd
Muse: @lupeguerragarcia
Assistant: @diegosousap
A photographic story exploring the theme of gender expression through the use of clothing
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Photography: @sebastien_nvsd
Muse: @lupeguerragarcia
Assistant: @diegosousap
The moment we've all been waiting for has finally arrived! The first edition of the ICONIQA Art Book is officially available! This visually stunning publication is a vibrant celebration of queer excellence, and it’s ready to take its place in your collection.
ICONIQA is more than just an art book; it’s a movement—a tribute to the brilliance and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community. This edition features iconic figures who continue to shape and define our culture through their artistry, courage, and unique perspectives. With a double-sided cover showcasing the legendary Amanda Lepore and the groundbreaking Alok, ICONIQA represents the diverse spectrum of queer identities and voices that make our community shine.
Inside the Art Book
Get ready to dive into pages filled with powerful editorials, breathtaking photography, and inspiring visuals contributed by some of the most trailblazing names in queer culture. Featured talents like Gigi Goode, serving otherworldly glamour and fierce style, Symone, showcasing resilience and beauty in her most radiant form, and Gottmik, pushing boundaries with breathtaking visuals and unapologetic expression, all make their mark in this edition. Additionally, M¥SS KETA brings avant-garde aesthetics with fierce authenticity, while The Darvish offers a unique perspective that delves into the depths of queer creativity. The incredible artistry of Kat Sass, Hanabi The K, and Sagittaria, to name a few, further enrich the pages, celebrating the richness of our global community.
Every page of ICONIQA is infused with the spirit of self-expression, resilience, and celebration—designed to inspire, provoke thought, and spark meaningful conversations. This art book is a tribute to the unapologetic brilliance that defines our community, filled with stories that honour the importance of visibility and representation.
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How to Get Your Copy
The ICONIQA Art Book is now available for purchase directly through our website. By getting your copy, you are not only investing in beautiful art but also supporting a movement that celebrates and amplifies diverse voices from every corner of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
Bob's Dance Shop is an acclaimed queer dance collective that has gained worldwide recognition for its fun and positive flash mobs. This electrifying collective isn't your average dance troupe; it's a vibrant celebration of queer artistry and inclusivity. Founded by the irrepressible Vince Coconato – Bob's Dance Shop is more than just a group of skilled dancers; it's a community, a safe haven where everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, can join in and shine with their own unique identity. Since its inception, the collective has placed a significant emphasis on queer expression, which has become an integral part of its identity.
Bob's Dance Shop is an acclaimed queer dance collective that has gained worldwide recognition for its fun and positive flash mobs. This electrifying collective isn't your average dance troupe; it's a vibrant celebration of queer artistry and inclusivity. Founded by the irrepressible Vince Coconato – Bob's Dance Shop is more than just a group of skilled dancers; it's a community, a safe haven where everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, can join in and shine with their own unique identity. Since its inception, the collective has placed a significant emphasis on queer expression, which has become an integral part of its identity.
"Being queer is a superpower. It's a strength, it's an advantage, it's a gift. It's not something to be ashamed of, it's something to be celebrated"
In a candid interview with the founder of Bob's Dance Shop, Vince Coconato shared the story of how the collective came to be and why it's essential to celebrate queer expression. Growing up in Central Florida, Coconato was made to feel ashamed of his queer identity and felt deeply closeted and suppressed. He recalls a personal story (probably not too dissimilar from many queer people growing up) of watching himself dancing to “Rhythm is a Dancer” and then immediately feeling a sense of shame. The VHS tape served as a poignant symbol of the suppression that he endured for years.
“When I was nine, I put on one of my sister's gymnastics unitard and danced to that song [Rhythm is a Dancer] while my sister recorded me on VHS. And I remember watching that tape back, and I got so terrified because I was so flamboyant and girly, and I immediately hid the tape. And no one ever saw it. I still don't know where I hid it.”
After college, Coconato left Central Florida for California, and Los Angeles became the canvas for his artistic rebirth. He left behind a life of fraternity presidency and closeted conformity – and finally found the freedom to explore, discover, and ultimately embrace his true self without “anyone having any pre-understanding of who I was and who I used to be.”
It was during this time of personal growth and newfound liberation that Coconato created his dream business, Twisted Oak Creative. This company, an extension of Coconato’s innovative brain, would become the umbrella under which Bob’s Dance Shop and his other creative ventures would live. To understand the relationship between Twisted Oak Creative and Bob’s Dance Shop, Coconato explains: “think of Twisted Oak as the Walt Disney universe where you have Cinderella, Snow White, all the other princesses. Well, underneath Twisted Oak, there are these characters. 12 of them, each with their unique personality and style. Well – Bob was the first. But there are others, like Polaroid Pete that will come in too.” Under the Twisted Oak banner, Coconato crafted 12 characters, each of which was a means for him to express himself fully and authentically, showcasing the flamboyance, fashion, and vibrancy that he had once suppressed (somewhere hidden on a VHS tape).
Digging into the notable characters Coconato mentions – Bob (being the group’s namesake) was born from an inside joke at Coconato’s day job from a bright yellow bowling shirt embroidered with the name, but grew into the personification and guiding character for the group and the flash mobs.
“[After creating Twisted Oak] my first project in LA was a flash mob at the promenade in Santa Monica, but I had no name. And I was like, got it. It's going to be a flash mob named Bob. And I became Bob. This very flamboyant, spunky personality. I even wore the yellow bowling shirt.”
Although he found a sense of accomplishment and creative fulfillment from these dance videos, Coconato lost his day job soon after, and this takes the creation story through an unexpected turn. After losing his job, Coconato embarked on a transformative hitchhiking trip from Los Angeles to Seattle. This fateful trip, which he documented on a vintage Polaroid camera, pushed Coconato beyond his comfort zones, connecting with strangers and relying on intuition. The encounters on the road, often serendipitous, would provide Coconato with deep insight into his true priorities, give birth to a new character Polaroid Pete (the last of his 12), and plant the seeds for what would later become Bob's Dance Shop.
Returning from his LA to Seattle odyssey, and faced with financial challenges and a desire to avoid a conventional day job, Coconato looked to his repertoire of characters for inspiration. “So I looked at all the 12 characters underneath Twisted Oak and I thought, who is the main character? Who is the sun in the solar system? Who is Zeus in this mythology? And it was Bob. And so out of that, in December of 2019, I officially started Bob's Dance Shop”, Coconato explains.
In December 2019, Bob's Dance Shop was born, initially as a way to make ends meet by hosting in-person dance experiences. Little did Bob know that a pandemic was about to reshape the world, setting the stage for a virtual revolution. Lockdown turned dance classes into virtual experiences, with roommates Lito, Lucas Hive and Kameron with a K, joining the ranks of the Bobs. What started as a Sunday “dance church” during the pandemic evolved into a global phenomenon. The magic of Bob's Dance Shop lies not just in its accidental origin but in the intentional depth woven into its fabric. These are more than just performances; they're acts of systemic defiance, declarations of joy, and testaments to the power of community.
At the core of Bob's Dance Shop is the motto, "Be Our Best." This motto isn’t just a tagline – it is a philosophy that emerged when the group formed. Recognizing the limitations of being a solo visionary, he emphasized the importance of collective dreams and finding that sweet spot where individual aspirations intersect. Each Bob contributes a unique talent, a vibrant style and a creative mind that has helped elevate the collective vision."Be Our Best" became the mantra, encapsulating the essence of being present, embracing community, and showing up as the best version of oneself.
“Dance is not just about skillset; it’s a universal language that bonds commonality amongst humanity. Queerness, for us, goes beyond sexuality – it's about disrupting norms and authentically expressing oneself," adds Coconato.
Their workshops, performances, and flash mobs serve as a space where participants are invited to join, and through playful activities and dance moves, they melt the metaphorical ice, fostering inclusivity, confidence, and building community.
In the realm of community building, Bob's Dance Shop serves as a beacon of empowerment and appreciation within the queer collective. For them, community isn't just a group; it's a shared garden where dreams are cultivated, and mutual support thrives.
Coconato passionately emphasizes the essence of community, drawing an analogy to a collective urban garden. Each member tends to their aspirations, symbolized as plants, and when someone is in need, the community responds with generosity. Coconato eloquently states, "We're a shared garden, literally a collective urban garden where we all have our dreams and we're watering our plants." This vivid imagery captures the nurturing spirit that defines their community.
Bob's Dance Shop is more than a dance group; it's a haven, a sanctuary, a paradise for authentic expression. The inclusivity of their spaces, whether in big cities or through online communities, is intentional. They aim to spark a realization in individuals that such spaces exist, leaving an indelible mark on those who experience it. Coconato expresses this sentiment by saying, "We want them to have that possibility of just being in that space and experiencing that these spaces actually exist. It's to intentionally spark something in that person. And once you experience it, you are kind of changed. You can't unfeel what you felt."
In short, Bob's Dance Shop is more than just a dance collective; it's a movement. It's a vibrant beacon of acceptance, a testament to the transformative power of art, and a celebration of the
human spirit in all its glorious diversity. As Coconato puts it, "We want to inspire people to express themselves freely and to be proud of who they are. We want to celebrate queer artistry and inclusivity, and we want to spread joy and positivity through dance."
Bob's Dance Shop epitomizes the profound impact of art, serving as both a vibrant celebration of diversity and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by Coconato's visionary leadership, this collective resonates with those that experience this unique art form, online or on stage, leaving an enduring impression through its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Bob’s Dance Shop embodies the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative potential of collective expression, challenging societal norms with every dance step. Drawing from the strength gained through their own journey, no matter how turbulent at times – the Bobs have created a space for others to find liberation and the freedom to express themselves authentically, unencumbered by judgment or prejudice. In short, Bob's Dance Shop fosters unity through diversity, inviting all to revel in the beauty of queer art and join in the joyous celebration of true self expression.
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Written by: Levi Rodriguez @itslikethejeans
Featured Bobs:
@Vincecoconato
@thekameronwithak
@LucasHive
@j.thomasito
Photographer:@MaximoXtravaganza
Directors: @Ktpaul @polobear_irl
Stylists: @VinceCoconato @polobear_irl
Emolsa Haasacha is a New York City based Ugandan fashionista/stylist, artist and model. Born and bred in Uganda, a developing country at odds with gender fluidity and where gender expressions is considered an anomaly. A boiling desire to break free from all society’s stereotypes was the foundation for his quest to championing change and visibility in his community.
"The happiest day of my life was when I had my reassignment surgery, becoming the woman I was born to be," she shares.
The memoir, though challenging to write, provides a profound insight into Amanda's resilience and the transformative power of embracing one's true self.
ALOK is “constantly becoming.” That’s what the trailblazing multihyphenate says when asked who they are.
“It feels less honest to say who I am and more accurate to say what I’m doing. And what I’m doing is: trying.”
March 1, 2024 Comments are off for this post.
Words by Diego Sousa Pitti, via MisfitLens Creative Agency
Photos by Aniol Oliver
In the heart of Barcelona's vibrant cultural landscape, amidst the pulsating rhythms of world-famous nightclub Razzmatazz, there exists a sanctuary of self-expression, creativity, and unapologetic celebration. At its helm stands Barry Brandon (he/she/they), known affectionately as "The Queer Indigo," a visionary whose creative spirit ignites the essence of IAMICONIQA. We interviewed them in order to bring you a simple answer to a complex question: What is IAMICONIQA? Read on to find out.
“I felt inspired to present something where I felt people from all over the world could feel comfortable to be themselves while simultaneously enjoying queer art."
As we step into the inception of IAMICONIQA, Barry shares insights into the genesis of this transformative adventure. Reflecting on a fusion of personal experiences and the space offered by Razzmatazz, Barry unveils the profound inspiration behind his creation.
"The idea for IAMICONIQA came from a combination of events and experiences that I have produced and presented in the past, combined with the capabilities that Razzmatazz offers as a venue. It had been a few years since I had presented an event, due to covid, and now that I am living in Barcelona, I felt inspired to present something where I felt people from all over the world could feel comfortable to be themselves while simultaneously enjoying queer art."
At the core of IAMICONIQA lies a profound commitment to inclusivity—a space devoid of judgment where individuals from all walks of life converge to celebrate their authenticity. Barry elucidates on the paramount importance of cultivating an environment where each attendee feels an unwavering sense of belonging. "The intention was to create a space that offered a sense of inclusion, where everyone and anyone could walk in the door and immediately feel safe. As far as impact, that is a question for the party-goers."
With 4 editions already under their belt, any attendee (me included) can tell you that the event is pure magic, freedom, and release. The venue turns into the open, accepting streets that every member of this new community wishes were the outside, day-to-day world, with a fabulous veil of self-expression through fashion, dance, and performances throughout the night, on three different stages. Add to that a roster of headliners that already includes the likes of Violet Chachki, Amanda Lepore, Hungry, Gottmik, Gigi Goode, Sagittaria, and Marina, and the event is simply a not-so-hidden-anymore bomb that is already creating one of the hottest international queer stages in all of Spain.
As IAMICONIQA flourishes into a beacon of queer artistry and queer excellence, Barry attributes its success to the collective efforts of a dedicated team—the magicians who breathe life into her visionary tapestry. "I’ve been curating experiences for over a decade. To be honest, I wouldn’t know how to really explain how I create the event…”, shares Barry, in awe of their latest team that has put their hands on and dove head first into the creation of this new experience.
With unwavering dedication, each member contributes their unique essence, sculpting an experience that transcends mere revelry. “I just have a vision of what I would love to see happen and then reach out to community members who I believe will be able to bring their magic to the vision in their own unique way, and that begins to shape the event." It is safe to say that Barry is more than satisfied with the team that has taken ownership of this event-turned-community, under his direction. Talking to him about them, it’s hard not to feel a sense of familial connection and love, with Barry as an almost-parental figure of sorts.
IAMICONIQA has emerged as a quintessential hallmark of artistic expression in Barcelona and Europe. One can feel how satisfied the IAMICONIQA Team is with their partnership with the local community’s embrace of this new experience. They describe the relationship as almost symbiotic — a union forged in creativity and mutual understanding that only stands to develop into more greatness and, in Barry’s words: queer excellence.
“I think that people enjoy to express themselves and because this event offers a safer environment that really allows people to feel free and confident to present themselves with no questions asked."
Amidst a kaleidoscope of colors and avant-garde ensembles, IAMICONIQA's attendees emerge as the true protagonists of this ethereal saga. A sartorial symphony that unfolds within the hallowed halls of Razzmatazz—a testament to the uninhibited expression and unbridled creativity that defines the essence of IAMICONIQA. No questions asked, no demands made, only respect, love, and freedom to be and express, are the main catalysts of a feeling of permission, invitation, and welcome, which in turn result in applied creativity: attendees put time and effort into constructing theme-consistent lewks to every edition.
As IAMICONIQA embarks on a journey of perpetual evolution, the Barry extends an impassioned call to action—to embrace the vibrancy of this cultural phenomenon and propel it towards new horizons. With unwavering optimism, she shares her aspirations for the future and extends an open invitation to all who seek to partake in this transformative odyssey.
"I would love for people to continue to support us by showing up and showing out. We can’t present events such as these if people aren’t coming out. My hope is that people love the vibes and if they do, I can keep developing concepts to share with the community."
IAMICONIQA transcends the confines of a mere event—it embodies a testament to the boundless power of art, inclusivity, and collective creativity. More so, it is a fast-growing community that has already started to show their own signature culture. As we stand at the precipice of a new era, let us heed the IAMICONIQA’s call and embark on this enchanting voyage—together, as one.
February 21, 2024 Comments are off for this post.
In the glittering world of drag, where every sequin tells a story and every beat of a fan's applause resonates with validation, few queens have captured the imagination quite like Gigi Goode. From the hallowed halls of "RuPaul's Drag Race" Season 12, this enigmatic artist emerged not just as a finalist but as a beacon of creativity, advocacy, and unapologetic self-expression. As we sit down with Gigi, she graciously invites us into her world, a place where the boundaries of gender blur and the spotlight reveals the true essence of a queen.
Gigi speaks of her journey with the wisdom of an old soul, acknowledging that the path of self-discovery is one that stretches far beyond the confines of a TV screen. "I think there’s always room to grow and evolve up until the day you die," she muses, her tone tinged with a quiet determination. "I pride myself on my views of the world and humanity, and my ability to stay out of drama." It's this steadfast commitment to authenticity that has endeared her to fans worldwide, as she continues to advocate tirelessly for transgender rights, one heartfelt conversation at a time.
For Gigi, creativity is not a finite resource but an ever-flowing river that meanders through the landscape of her imagination. "You have to be able to walk away from a project and let your eyes readjust to the real world," she advises, her words a gentle reminder that inspiration often strikes when we least expect it. It's this willingness to embrace the unknown that fuels her artistic journey, propelling her towards new heights of innovation and self-expression.
“You have to be able to walk away from a project and let your eyes readjust to the real world. I promise inspiration will strike when you least expect it.”
In the hallowed halls of Drag Con, where queens reign supreme and fans flock like pilgrims to a sacred shrine, Gigi had a moment that transcended mere celebrity. "I had my mom and my two brothers working at my booth," she recalls. "I’m not sure what the interaction was, but I saw my brothers crying with a fan of mine." In that fleeting moment, the boundaries between artist and audience melted away, leaving only the raw power of human connection in its wake.
As a trailblazer for gender exploration and affirmation, Gigi understands the weight of responsibility that comes with visibility. "I always urge people who may not know where they are in their gender journey to not look to other people for affirmation," she explains, steady and unwavering. "You have to find a way to be comfortable with your own reflection." It's this message of self-empowerment that guides her advocacy, reminding others that true liberation begins from within.
“You have to find a way to be comfortable with your own reflection. To that point, I think the best way to be an advocate for these types of things is to keep living my life in the spotlight, but not make my transition all that I am. Of course it’s a major part of me, but our goal is to be integrated into society and not to feel like outcasts.”
In the kaleidoscopic world of drag, where every wig is a crown and every strut is a declaration of sovereignty, Gigi finds solace in the act of creation itself. "My drag is rarely meant to invoke a serious emotion or make a strong statement," she reveals, her words a testament to the transformative power of self-expression. "For me, drag is a gift to my inner child who just wanted to be an adorable popstar on stage." It's this playful spirit that infuses her art with an ineffable charm, inviting audiences to join her on a journey of joy and self-discovery.
As she casts her gaze towards the horizon, Gigi envisions a future where drag transcends the boundaries of gender and identity, becoming a mirror that reflects the world around us. "Before 'Drag Race,' no drag queens ever modeled their face and costume after another drag queen," she reflects, her tone tinged with quiet optimism. "That’s what I hope we can get back to." In this brave new world of possibility, drag becomes not just a performance but a profound statement of solidarity, a rallying cry for authenticity in an age of artifice.
For Gigi, the journey towards self-discovery is a deeply personal one, a voyage of exploration that defies categorization and embraces fluidity. "Actually, gender fluidity was just a place holder for me," she confides with quiet confidence. "It was something I could say to myself and the world that would later ease me into identifying as the woman I am." In this act of self-affirmation, she discovers a sense of freedom that transcends the confines of gender, embracing the boundless possibilities of her own imagination.
“Actually, gender fluidity was just a place holder for me. It was something I could say to myself and the world that would later ease me into identifying as the woman I am. Leaning into the gender that I’ve always known myself to be has provided that sense of freedom.”
In an industry where glamour reigns supreme and the spotlight can be unforgiving, Gigi remains steadfast in her commitment to authenticity. "I’m all about self-care," she declares, her words a gentle reminder that true beauty begins from within. "Not so much facemasks and mani-pedis, but more so checking in with myself and reminding myself that it’s all just a game that we’re playing." In this world of smoke and mirrors, she remains a beacon of authenticity, a guiding light for those who dare to dream.
As our conversation draws to a close, Gigi offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future, a world where creativity knows no bounds and possibilities stretch out like stars in the night sky. "Let’s just say I’ve been doing a lot of sewing lately," she teases. In this moment, the future feels limitless, a blank canvas waiting to be painted with the vibrant hues of possibility. And with Gigi Goode leading the way, the journey promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Join us for a night of queer excellence on February 25th at Razzmatazz, where a spectacular night of celebration and expression awaits you. The theme of the evening is LEWKS - a canvas for your creativity and flair, where your most extravagant outfits are heartily encouraged, though not mandatory. Prepare to be enthralled by the stunning performances of Gigi Goode from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Marina from RuPaul’s Drag Race Spain, and an array of spotlight acts including Missla Blank, Lupe, Victoria Banks, Beltran, Yazmina Gasolina, and more. Revel in the presence of gogo’s, dancers, and fashion faggortinas galore, ensuring an evening brimming with glamour and spectacle.
The festivities kick off with doors opening and dancing from 6pm, followed by an exclusive Meet & Greet with Gigi Goode at 7pm. The excitement builds with a Lewk | Runway Contest at 8pm, a dazzling Fashion Show at 9pm, and mesmerizing performances at 10pm and 11pm, with dancing from 11:30pm into the early hours. The beats will be supplied by Banana Laser and Darling Peter, ensuring the dance floor remains electrified throughout the night. Emceed by the charismatic Barry Brandon (The Queer Indigo) and MARINA, this event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of diversity, creativity, and unity.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this unique experience. Meet & Greet tickets are limited and available now, along with Early Bird Tickets, promising an evening filled with awe-inspiring performances, fashion, and dance. Join us for a night that celebrates the essence of the queer community in all its glory.
August 22, 2023 Comments are off for this post.
Gottmik Headliners ICONIQA on October 15, 2023. VIP, Meet & Greet and General Admission tickets are available now.
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