Brian Spies: The Rural Artist Challenging Gender Norms Through Photography and Performance

Brian Spies is a talented artist from Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He is known for using his own life and experiences in his work. Through photography and performance, Brian explores big ideas like gender, identity, and mental health. Even though he lives in a small town, his work reaches people all over the world. This article will tell you about Brian’s journey, his art, and how he challenges norms in unique ways.

Early Life and Struggles

Brian grew up in Williamsport, the home of Little League Baseball. As a child, he faced many challenges. He was very tall and people expected him to play sports. Although he tried, he wasn’t good at them. Instead, he was more interested in art. Brian also struggled with mental health from a young age. He started therapy at just six years old. He experienced depression, anxiety, and even heard voices. He spent time in hospitals as a child to get help.

Despite his struggles, Brian found comfort in creativity. His parents were supportive and tried to get him the help he needed. They treated his condition seriously and never saw him as just a troublemaker. This support helped him stay out of the juvenile justice system, which many kids with similar issues end up in.

Finding Art and Purpose

Brian’s interest in art started early. When he was bored, his parents told him to draw. After high school, he thought he would study philosophy. But he didn’t get accepted into the schools he applied to. So, he took art classes at a community college instead. He quickly fell in love with photography.

He later transferred to Lycoming College to study more about art. After college, he no longer had access to the school’s cameras, so he stopped making art for a while. During this time, he also explored graffiti and had some of his first big shows in New York and California. After a tough year that included losing his grandmother, Brian started painting again. This led him to earn his Master of Fine Arts degree in Philadelphia.

Life in Rural Pennsylvania

Brian still lives in Williamsport, but he stays connected to the art world in Philadelphia. He says rural areas have more culture than people might think. While there are people with conservative views, there is also a strong creative and queer community. He works from a studio in an old pajama factory, which is now home to many artists.

Even though his town is small, it hosts events like the Fringe Festival, bringing in artists and drag performers from around the world. Brian says it’s not always easy, but the community supports each other.

Art That Tells a Story

Brian’s art is deeply personal. He mostly uses himself as the subject, creating self-portraits that explore identity and gender. One of his main projects is about American gender roles. He dresses as cowboys and cowgirls to explore how people view masculinity and femininity.

His work is not just serious—it also includes humor. Brian believes that humor can help people understand tough topics. Even though his work deals with pain and struggle, he tries to add a touch of lightness.

Tribute to Tom of Finland

Brian took part in a video project called “States of Desire,” honoring the famous Finnish artist Tom of Finland. Tom’s art focused on hyper-masculine men and bold sexual expression. Brian’s part in the project showed him go-go dancing in a cowboy outfit. He felt that this performance connected perfectly with Tom of Finland’s work.

Brian has admired Tom’s art since college. He says the bold images drew him in, but he also liked how Tom used humor to show very masculine characters in playful ways. Brian sees his own work as continuing that idea.

Speaking Out Through Art

One of Brian’s earlier projects involved the Eastern State Penitentiary. He created an audio collage about his experiences with mental health. It was part of the prison’s audio tour and gave visitors a deeper understanding of what it’s like to live with mental illness. This project also helped him return to photography, as the money he earned allowed him to buy a large format camera.

Living Authentically

Brian is open about being non-binary. He wears dresses and makeup in public, even in a small town. At 6’8” and 350 pounds, he stands out, and people notice him. But his size also makes people think twice before judging or confronting him.

He says most people in town know him and treat him with respect, even if they don’t share his views. He hopes that personal relationships can help change people’s minds about important issues.

What Makes Brian Unique

Brian’s work is brave and honest. He is not afraid to share his own story, even the painful parts. He talks openly about being in the hospital as a child, fighting addiction, and living with Tourette Syndrome. But he also talks about hope and healing. He has been sober for over 18 years and continues to create meaningful art.

He says he doesn’t make wishes or resolutions. Instead, he focuses on riding the waves of life. He believes both good and bad moments will pass. His favorite quote comes from Leonard Cohen: “There’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.”

Conclusion

Brian Spies is an artist who uses his life to inspire others. Through photography, performance, and storytelling, he explores what it means to be human. He brings attention to gender, mental health, and the power of creativity. Living in a small town hasn’t stopped him from reaching big audiences. His work reminds us that art can come from anywhere and that every story matters.

FAQs

Q: Where is Brian Spies from?
A: Brian is from Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Q: What kind of art does Brian Spies create?
A: He mainly does photography and performance art, often using self-portraits.

Q: What themes does his art explore?
A: His work explores gender roles, mental health, and identity.

Q: What is “States of Desire”?
A: It’s a video art project that honors Tom of Finland. Brian’s performance was included in it.

Q: Has Brian worked with any major institutions?
A: Yes, he worked with Eastern State Penitentiary on a sound art project about mental health.

Q: Is he involved in the LGBTQ+ community?
A: Yes, Brian is non-binary and his work often explores LGBTQ+ themes.

Q: Where can I see his work?
A: His work can be found online and in exhibits connected to art festivals like the Fringe Festival.