A "deeply honest and extraordinarily candid" photo essay of LGBTQI+ City of London professionals goes on display in Broadgate, this September.
Over 60 portraits of people who work in the City form #CorporateQueer, an exhibition which introduces us to professionals celebrating their own 'queerness', or that of friends and colleagues.
The photos, taken by Fiona Freund, capture marketing managers, IT consultants, security guards, artists, legal professionals — and even a lord — posing in their workplaces and by landmarks, including the London Eye, Tower of London, Albert Bridge, and BT Tower.
They're on display at 3FA in Broadgate, from 10 till 24 September.
Accompanying each portrait is a quote from the subject. While often peppered with pride and optimism, these quotes also highlight the many challenges and issues still faced by the LGBTQ+ community, in a UK in which less than 20% of LGBT+ are out at work, and 50% of transgender employees hide their workplace identity for fear of discrimination.
Carla Matthews, a partner at Begbies Traynor Group, says: "On the whole I think the world has turned, some are more curious about differences rather than scared. I find ignorance to be the basis of the comments that I have received in the past, only through recognising that and educating people will that change.
"I'm happy to be part of the project because I think it is important to be seen. Particularly in a context outside of the usual characters and caricatures in the entertainment industry."
Suki Sandhu OBE, founder and CEO at Involve says: "I've always felt like an outsider in business and it's probably why I started my own companies. Why do you need to wear a tie and suit in business to be successful? You don't.
"I haven't worn a tie in over 10 years. I see it as my own little protest against those in positions of power and influence."
The Rt Hon Lord Smith of Finsbury says in his quote: "Whilst you must fight like a tiger to take up issues of LGBT+ equality, you mustn't let that become the only thing that defines you.
"The confidence and freedom that come from being proud of your own identity enable you to make a real difference and bring freedom for others too."
As well as being displayed inside 3FA, the photographs will be projected onto Broadgate's UBS building each evening, for the duration of the two week exhibition.
#CorporateQueer is at 3FA in Broadgate from 10-24 September, every day from 10am-6pm. Entry is free.
