Acrylic on canvas, stretched and ready to hang.
Signed on the back.
This artwork comes with an external frame
"GOD IS GAY" is a deeply personal artwork that encapsulates my journey of coming to terms with my own sexuality within the backdrop of the church, an environment that often frowned upon LGBTQ+ identities. As an individual who identifies as pansexual, I grappled with the overwhelming societal pressure, particularly within the church, where being gay was viewed as one of the worst things imaginable.
The central imagery of Jesus in an erotic embrace with the devil is a powerful symbol in this artwork. It's a provocative representation of my inner turmoil and the conflict I felt between my authentic self and the teachings and expectations of the church. The embrace represents the struggle, both internal and external, that many LGBTQ+ individuals experience when their true identity clashes with the norms imposed by religious institutions. It's a visual metaphor for the complexity of my own journey.
For a long time, I hid my true self, fearing the repercussions of coming out. The church's disapproval and the pervasive stigmatisation of homosexuality made it incredibly challenging for me to be honest with myself and others. It wasn't until I found a stable, loving relationship that I felt safe and supported enough to come out and fully embrace my pansexuality.
The pain of not being able to be true to myself earlier, because of the fear instilled by the church, is a poignant part of this artwork's narrative. It serves as a reminder of the harm caused by societal prejudices and the immense courage it takes to break free from those constraints. "GOD IS GAY" is a visual representation of my personal struggles, a declaration of my identity.
I've reached a point in my life where I've accepted myself fully, even though it's unlikely that the church will ever fully accept people like us. I've realised that my worth and identity don't depend on their approval. My message to others in similar situations: You're not alone, and self-acceptance is a courageous act. We deserve love, respect, and happiness, regardless of external judgments.