What’s Inside

Violet Cleary

(any pronouns)

19, Bronx 

Violet is a non-binary/queer digital artist and animator from Mount Vernon, New York. He currently attends Pratt Institute in Brooklyn and his work focuses on combining physical mediums with digital art in order to create pieces filled with texture and visual interest.

As a black AFAB growing up in a Christian family, I never had much autonomy. I made this piece when I was still in the closet. Both figures in the drawing represent the two sides of my gender expression. One side is what I show to the world to appease others, with red feminine lipstick and a baggy hoodie that hides her body. The other is a king, who wears his queerness on his skin. As I’ve grown older and gained more independence, I’ve felt empowered and autonomous as I can finally reveal that person in the mirror to the world.

Art offers me a chance to experiment and play with my gender expression. I don’t have to worry about drawing myself in a way that’s “acceptable” or “presentable.” As our fascist government attempts to eradicate trans people from existence, creating art reminds me that I indeed do still exist, and that the king in me is still alive and thriving. Advocacy must be in my survival tool kit because without it I will be trampled by those who want me to stay feminine, soft, and pretty forever. I am allowed to advocate for change within myself and change for my trans brothers and sisters.

Instagram: @vivici_25

Venmo: @Vivici_25