The Brookline Arts Center is thrilled to extend an invitation to you for the Opening Gallery Reception of the exhibition titled "this is what i really look like" curated by Bean Pecorari. This exhibit brings together the works of 13 talented artists, all of whom seek to amplify the voices of the queer and trans community.

This excerpt from the exhibition statement beautifully encapsulates the essence of this showcase:

"This exhibition is about the gender-queer lens and features art by people who identify as transgender, non-binary, or gender-queer. With our common lens on the world, themes of community, nature, gender, and energy emerge as through-lines."

Through their art, these extraordinary artists explore the multifaceted experiences of transgender, non-binary, and gender-queer individuals. The artwork serves as a medium for expressing self-advocacy, defying societal expectations, and embracing the realities of transition. This collection is a powerful declaration of identity, capturing the beauty and resilience of the human body in both literal and abstract ways.

"This is What I Really Look Like" fosters an environment that brings trans artists into conversation with one another, acknowledging the unique lives they have built, moving beyond trauma, and celebrating individual journeys. While the exhibit offers a glimpse into the trans lens, it is important to note that it does not claim to be a holistic representation of the entire gender-queer community. Each trans experience is influenced by infinite variables such as race, gender, sexuality, class, and ability. Privileges and adversities shape the access we have to telling our stories, and this exhibition acknowledges that there are always more stories to be told.

We cordially invite you to join us at the Opening Gallery Reception of "This is What I Really Look Like" on Thursday, July 27 from 4-6pm. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant and thought-provoking artistic expressions of the queer and trans community. By attending, you will be showing support for these artists and their mission to amplify voices that have historically been marginalized.

The event will take place at Beacon Street Gallery, where you'll have the chance to engage with the artwork, meet the talented artists, and connect with like-minded individuals who value inclusivity and creative expression. Light refreshments will be served, adding to the warm atmosphere of the evening.

We anticipate an inspiring and meaningful evening that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences within the gender-queer community.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Opening Gallery Reception of "This is What I Really Look Like", where powerful stories will be told through the captivating art of these talented individuals.