I wish I was fabulous! allows everyone to transform themselves by simply passing their head through a tarpaulin onto which is projected a video of drag queens, kings & queers, real warriors. Indeed, they were among the first to fight for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community during the Stonewall riots (the beginnings of Gay Pride), and have now become stars in the eyes of the general public.
By immersing yourself in the work, you not only experience it from the inside, but also become an actor for outside observers.
In addition to its playfulness and immediacy, I wish I was fabulous! is a warning about dysmorphophobia, and highlights the fact that drag is not just a "new phenomenon", but a political act that, among other things, deconstructs gender norms.
Finally, the gentle irony of the installation is that, as it's impossible to take photos or film oneself correctly, it encourages exchange.
Installed for Parcours d'Artistes Festival in Brussels, Belgium, in 2024.
The first video was produced with the exceptional participation of Susan from Grindr, Hélène de Bruxelles, Sugar love, Montana Megabitch, Anna.rt.she, Edna Sorgelsen, Brittany Von Bottocks, Crystal Starz, Valenciaga, Blanket la Goulue, Teddy Boop, Chéri-e Chapstick, Hyda Lontuck, Paula Roïd and Dorow.
Some food for thought
Drag art has significant historical importance as an artistic expression and form of resistance throughout the ages. It is often seen as a political act; not least because of its role in challenging norms of gender, sexuality and identity. It is a means of challenging social norms and advancing causes that concern minorities and human rights. It's a powerful tool for educating, raising awareness and promoting positive change in society.
• LGBTQIA+ movement: Drag has been central to the LGBTQIA+ rights movement since its inception. The Stonewall riots in 1969, often seen as the catalyst for the LGBTQIA+ rights movement, were led by people, including drag queens, who rebelled against police discrimination.
• Community building: The drag community is often a safe and supportive space for LGBTQIA+ people and other minorities. By coming together around drag culture, people can strengthen mutual support, advance political causes and raise awareness of important issues.
• Resistance to gender norms: drag generally involves presenting oneself as a different gender to the one assigned at birth. This challenges the traditional notion of binary gender and shows that gender identity is fluid and performative, rather than innate. Drag artists have performed in underground spaces and used their art to challenge social expectations of masculine and feminine behavior. This challenge to gender norms helps to combat discrimination and stigmatization of transgender, gender non-conforming people and the LGBTQIA+ community in general.
• Artistic expression: Drag has a long history as an artistic expression. Drag artists have contributed to the art, theater and fashion scenes by creating spectacular looks, pushing creative boundaries and offering unique performances that can educate audiences on issues related to sexuality, diversity, self-acceptance, gender equality, equal rights, anti-oppression, mental health and more.
• Representation and visibility: Drag plays an important role in the visibility of LGBTQIA+ people and has helped change society's perceptions of gender identity and sexual orientation. Popular drag personalities, such as RuPaul, have brought the art form to a wider audience and helped broaden society's understanding and acceptance of drag.
The social and economic reality for drag performers is often marked by significant challenges, despite the growing popularity of drag art thanks to shows like “RuPaul's Drag Race” and increased media attention. Here's a look at the main aspects of this reality:
1. Economic insecurity
* Irregular and modest income: Many drag artists live on unstable incomes, often below what is needed to live comfortably. Fees for performances can vary considerably, depending on the artist's reputation and the city in which he or she performs. In smaller towns or for lesser-known artists, fees can be very low, sometimes even covering only travel expenses.
* High costs: The art of drag requires significant investment in costumes, make-up, wigs and accessories, which can be very expensive. These expenses are often borne by the artists themselves, with no guaranteed return on investment.
* Lack of social protection: Drag artists are often self-employed or work in precarious conditions, with no access to social protection such as health insurance, unemployment or retirement.
2. Discrimination and marginalization
* Systemic discrimination: Drag artists, particularly those from ethnic minorities or belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, often face multiple forms of discrimination. This can include limited access to professional opportunities or discrimination in their daily lives.
* Violence and harassment: In certain contexts, drag performers may experience violence or harassment because of their gender expression. This is particularly true in regions where homophobia and transphobia are still deeply entrenched, but is unfortunately on the increase worldwide.
3. Community solidarity
* Support networks: To offset these challenges, many drag artists rely on strong community networks, where mutual support is crucial. LGBTQ+ bars and artist collectives often play a key role in creating these spaces of solidarity.
* Alternative events and platforms: Faced with the difficulties of accessing the big stages, many drag artists create and participate in alternative events, often organized by the community itself. These spaces help to promote the art of drag in a variety of forms, and to create solid professional networks.
4. Growing but uneven visibility
* Increased popularity: Thanks to popular TV shows and social networks, some drag artists have gained visibility and notoriety, enabling some to access more stable incomes and varied career opportunities.
* Disparities: However, this visibility is often concentrated on a limited number of artists, creating a disparity between those who manage to make a name for themselves internationally and the majority of artists who continue to struggle for recognition and financial stability.
Unfortunately, it seems clear that the majority of drag artists live in a reality marked by economic and social difficulties, while relying on community solidarity networks. Despite increased visibility for some, inequality and discrimination remain a reality for many.
Unfortunately, it seems clear that the majority of drag artists live in a reality marked by economic and social difficulties, while relying on community solidarity networks. Despite increased visibility for some, inequality and discrimination remain a reality for many.