In southern culture, sexual and gender identity is directly tied to environmental activism. Men who are actively compassionate about issues in our climate are labeled by our community as “gay” or “feminine”; despite all genders being dependent on the earth’s natural world.

I painted the model in traditionally feminine colors, to make his demeanor soft. He is holding a baby lamb, putting him in a more maternal role. Behind him are some of the endangered flowers of Alabama. This painting is a celebration of the men in my community that ignore traditional gender roles to fight for our planet.

May 2025