A step forward : investigating the concept of normalisation of non-heterosexual identities through portraiture

Abstract

This study aims to portray a visually aesthetic journey through a photographic catalogue, which invites viewers to observe and understand the concept of moving towards the normalisation of non-heterosexual identities in Maltese society. The photographic journal, which is a collection of black and white photographs of three models, strives to be the primary example by which depictions of non-heterosexual and heterosexual individuals can be combined and presented in an equal manner. An extensive comprehension of sociologists who analysed the concept of binaries, gender-roles and sexuality were reflected upon, along with practitioners of photography who worked in black and white or tackled the subject of non-heterosexuality. This enabled the formation and conduction for a quantitative research approach in the form of a structured questionnaire, which was published on a social media platform for individuals from different age groups to partake in. Photographic works of both non-heterosexuals and heterosexuals were produced, specifically close-up shots of their bodies from different angles, that were then combined in the catalogue, which was transformed into an online interactive PDF. A final artwork combining portraits of the three models was placed at the end of the catalogue, to further allude to the concept that there is more to an individual than just their sexuality. Lastly, this research paper also provides an insight for future studies, to further investigate the notion of non-heterosexuality being a taboo topic in Malta, as a preconceived idea in society and not necessarily a reality.