Gallery to host 'first-of-its-kind' drag exhibition

Liverpool's drag scene has provided a stage for a range of outstanding performers, the artist said

An award-winning photographer who was inspired by drag culture is to showcase a series of his captivating images as part of a gallery's summer show.

The exhibition, described as "first-of-its-kind", will feature colourful photographs of local drag artists and international stars taken by Magnus Hastings.

Mr Hastings, who has photographed famous faces including Boy George, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Luke Evans, said it will put the spotlight on his subjects' "local talent and artistry".

Entitled Queen, the show will run at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool from 27 July to 25 August.

The exhibition, entitled Queen, will feature a range of captivating images

Portraits of renowned drag queens including Bianca del Rio, Courtney Act, Danny Beard and Trixie Mattel will be shown alongside never-before-seen shots of Liverpool's own drag artists in the city's Pride Quarter.

The artist, originally from London, said: "Drag has always been at the forefront of my work.

"Whatever else I do I am always pulled back to the genre as I have never found the same freedom, daring and creativity anywhere else.

"I like to say I am a participant, not an observer, as it has always made sense to me since I was a small boy teetering in my mother’s heels wrapped in a boa - drag is my home."

'Vibrant'

Queen is described as exploring drag's roots and its "continual evolution", while exploring how drag culture has sparked debate among some.

David Watson, executive director of audiences and media at National Museums Liverpool, said: “Through the brilliant lens of Magnus Hastings, this showcase offers a captivating glimpse into the vibrant, diverse, and unapologetically expressive world of drag, which has long been an integral part of Liverpool's cultural fabric."