Famous gay artist

This is a list of notable visual artists who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or otherwise non-heterosexual. This list covers artists known for the creation of visual art such as drawings, paintings, sculptures, photographs, installations, performance works and video works. From the pioneering brushstrokes of gay artists to the groundbreaking works of gay painters, as well as the innovative expressions of queer artists, this article illuminates the lives and artistic legacies of some of the most renowned figures in the realm of art who have proudly embraced their LGBTQ+ identities.

These artists not only pushed the boundaries of their art but also broke ground for the LGBTQ+ community. Their works, ranging from Renaissance masterpieces to modern street art, have left an undeniable impact on the art world. Nonetheless, the pioneering artist set about depicting the gentle and intimate sides of gay love, from the very early moments of his long career.

We Two Boys Together Clinging, , is an abstract and delicate love letter to gay intimacy and queer experience. The LGBTQ+ community has long been celebrated within the music industry, as some of the biggest stars of the late 20th century and beyond have identified themselves as such. Music has always been a powerful medium for expression, and over the years, numerous gay musicians have made an indelible.

Indeed, these famous gay musicians faced tremendous backlash and damage to their careers because of their honesty and openness. As we explore queer performance art , we pay homage to those who came before us. However, it wasn't always this way, especially for musicians. Coming out as a gay musician in the 20th century was no small feat.

It required immense courage and determination, especially when the music industry was predominantly hetero-normative. Sexuality was not only a taboo topic for public discussion but could also result in alienation from fans and even cause damage to one's career. As such, many gay musicians chose to keep their sexual orientation hidden for fear of retribution.

Take Bruce Wayne Campbell known by his stage name Jobriath , for example. He was not only one of the first openly gay rock musicians to get signed to a big record label, but tragically, he was also one of the first internationally famous musicians to die of AIDS. Despite tremendous talent, he also came up against severe backlash for his sexuality. In the face of such challenges, many gay musicians turned to music activism to advocate for their rights and create change.

Through their songs and performances, these courageous individuals were able to shed light on important issues and promote love, tolerance, and acceptance. They used their platforms to speak out against discrimination and fight for equal rights for all. Now, let's turn our attention back to musicians like Jobriath, who are or were openly gay in the music industry.

They serve as a reminder that it is possible to thrive as a musician while being true to oneself. Benjamin Britten is one of the greatest composers of the 20th century. He was also open about his homosexuality in a time and place where being gay was heavily stigmatized and illegal. In , Britten was among the signers of a letter to a newspaper called The Observer , which demanded decriminalizing homosexuality, which was then punishable by imprisonment in the UK.

Japanese cabaret performer, singer, actor, drag queen, and social activist Akihiro Miwa began his career as a cabaret performer in the s, quickly gaining notice for his androgynous appearance. Miwa's performances often included a mix of Japanese and English, along with extravagant costumes and makeup. He has been a vocal proponent of same-sex marriage and has spoken out against discrimination and harassment.

gay male singers today

Richard Wayne Penniman was born in and began singing in church at an early age. In the early s, he began performing in clubs and bars, developing the stage persona Little Richard. Today, many artists and historians recognize Little Richard as a very influential figure in the rock and roll space. He later returned to secular music but continued to draw on his religious beliefs in his music.

Little Richard passed away on May 9, , at the age of Singer, songwriter, and pianist Sir Elton John is one of the most successful and influential musicians ever, with over million records sold worldwide. Born Reginald Kenneth Dwight in , John began playing the piano at a young age. In the s, John established himself in London bars and clubs, eventually earning a record deal in Now, he is widely considered one of the most successful and influential gay musicians of all time, winning five Grammy Awards to date and an Academy Award for his work on the soundtrack for the film The Lion King.

His powerful vocals and eclectic stage style combined elements of rock, pop, opera, and even more esoteric styles. His death at age 45 in November shocked millions of fans.