Kate Peters 'Embodied Fictions'

Embodied fictions is a photographic series that explores the relationship between performance and identity through portraits of female and non-binary clowns. The clown, historically a figure of contradiction, is at once absurd and truthful. Drawn to this duality as a way of exploring questions around identity, gender and vulnerability, Peters has been collaborating with an incredible assortment of clowns from around the world. Looking at what it is to clown, to appear light and absurd but also profound. The masks and costumes transcend disguise, they are tools of expression, allowing access to a self beyond where we dare to go in everyday life. Clowns stand outside of, or are marginalised by society, unbound by conventional social roles, however, they are free to challenge societal expectations and explore diverse ideas. The work is not about stripping away the mask to find a truth, suggesting instead that truth can be found in the performance. All selves are performed to some degree, and that performance in itself, can be liberating.

Philosophical, political, poignant; heartbreaking and hilarious, Peters is in awe of these humans and immensely privileged that they agree to be part of this ongoing series.