be:longing

series of 18 self-portraits

be:longing is a self-portrait series that examines rest, comfort, and the insertion of queer bodies into unconventional spaces. Created by a trans-femme nonbinary artist, it addresses the inherent controversy of their presence in public and social spaces.

The work challenges societal norms, striving to carve out a space for solace and peace that queer individuals deserve, while also questioning the persistent narrative of sexualizing bodies. It interrogates masculinity in relation to gender identity and how these reductions shape perceptions of the queer body.

Inspired by impressionist nude paintings, which historically portrayed the nude as an autonomous subject beyond mere sexuality, the series critics the contemporary depiction of queer bodies that are often hypersexualized in art and media. While producing the series, the artist’s gender identity was frequently questioned, underscoring the pervasive link between gender and sexuality in society.

be:longing seeks to desensitize the sexualization of queer bodies, placing gender at rest and allowing the body to exist simply as it is. The series was created under the guidance of Jamie Maxtone-Graham.

Artist

Dan Ni

Vietnam

Dan Ni (they/them) is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Saigon and Hanoi (Vietnam). Their works explore various themes, ranging from existentialism, urban intimacy, to gender politics, and cultural decay; with an ongoing interest in exploring new material and techniques, as well as the relationship between analogue and digital. Dan Ni is the recipient of the Prince Claus Seed Awards in 2024, and the British Council’s Connection Through Culture Grant in 2021, as well as other grants and funds. Their works have been displayed at Toong Asia, Manzi, The Outpost, and most recently Nổ Cái Bùm art festival.