1 must have

In a selection of portraits from the photo zine #1 must have, this exhibition re-frames queer visibility and experience outside of the victim paradigm often perpetuated by popular culture. These photographs show how queer people of all ages, queer people of color, and those with trans identities live in public and private spaces, and celebrates their lives in individual terms that are representative of larger communities.

#1 must have is available as a full color, narrative portrait zine, a self-publication that disseminates information not acknowledged by mainstream media or normative culture. Hard copies are published on a quarterly basis and there are four issues to date, including a regularly updated online component. #1 must have is named after its creators’ interpretation of the eponymous song by riot grrl band Sleater-Kinney, and for them represents community/ies, support, self-expression, and love – all must-have’s.

Issues of #1 must have will be available for purchase at the museum. There will be a reception on Friday, January 18, 2013 from 6-8 pm.

About the creators Based in Seattle, WA, Adrien Leavitt is a photographer and an attorney, and A. Slaven is a public librarian. Together they are the creative partners for #1 must have, DJs, and co-promoters for the Seattle queer dance night, LICK! To learn more, visit number1musthave.tumblr.com.

Leslie-Lohman Museum Window Gallery This street-facing gallery is visible twenty-four hours a day, and features work by contemporary, emerging and under-represented LGBTQ artists who address issues of gender, identity, and pop culture.