Created in private between 1984 and 1999, a new collection of previously unseen images by artist Carla Williams offers a poignant glimpse into the life of a young, queer, Black woman on a quest to explore her own possibilities. Drawing from both historical male-driven images and intimate moments discovered in her father's pornography collection, she set out to create portraits that mirrored her own identity, presenting herself as she had never seen before.
With instant Polaroid 35mm and 4x5 type 55 film formats, Williams dived into a world of self-expression and experimentation. Tender became an act of self-communion, revealing every facet of the artist - provocative, playful, sensual, gentle, powerful, mean, glamorous, forlorn, and funny. The photographs exude the raw energy of a young artist embracing her burgeoning sexual identity on the brink of adulthood. Within the pages of this monograph, readers will find not only Williams' captivating images but also insightful essays contributed by the esteemed scholar, Dr. Mireille Miller-Young. Published by TBW Books, Tender is a testament to the power of self-portraiture, a celebration of personal exploration and an invitation to witness the artist's authentic journey.
Tender is available for pre-sale here.
