I snuck my camera into Patti Smith and David Bowie concerts in the early '80s. I was compelled to capture the power of their artistry and originality.  The subjects I've photographed in the years since have ranged from the people who come together to express themselves in underground subcultures to illegal street art. I seek out that vividness and rawness that drives people to push cultural boundaries. 

As a queer artist I've been documenting the diversity of queer and gender expressions that have flourished despite oppression over decades. We have a history that is constantly being taken from us and I know how important it is to own our own voices and our own lives. Queer culture in and of itself is a world that survives and persists - yet like all human life is fleeting and ever changing. I want the world to know that we exist, we are beautiful and we are strong. 

I started shooting graffiti in New York City in the early '80s. It was raw culture that bubbled up everywhere in the city - unsanctioned, unique and attention getting. I never stopped photographing this work anywhere I saw it, even as it has evolved, becoming known and recognized as "street art". I love that the walls of the world are the inspiration for these artists and how they bring art to all who pass by.