Emily Grace

"Drawing upon my experience as a queer woman raised in strict religion, I make paintings and photographs that revere and celebrate queer identity. Using chiaroscuro and posing that draws inspiration from Renaissance artists and religious artwork, I challenge the heterosexual, male dominance of the traditional Christian institutions that has shamed and harmed queer folks. 

My work explores my adoration for my wife and the highly visible queer women who often bear the brunt of discrimination and hate. Through life-size photographs and immersive installations, I confront the viewer with the strength, beauty, and power that queer women hold. These installations not only promote participation, but invite the viewers to become performers allowing them to be in communion with the work. Through this experience, I encourage the viewer to confront their own assumptions and expectations of women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and examine their own identities."

Grace McCoy (b. 1994 Tahlequah, Oklahoma) currently lives and works in El Paso, TX. They earned their BFA in studio art from Northeastern State University after retiring from their career as a ballet dancer and is currently completing their MFA at the School of Visual Arts (SVA). Their work investigates the dynamics of butch and femme lesbians, challenging heteronormative norms by exploring queer identity and partnership through the lens of queer failure, informed by queer gender theory and the complexities of intersectionality within queer communities. They have been influenced by queer religious trauma, and power dynamics and abuse within religious institutions. They have participated in many group shows across the country, as well as a solo show at FemmeX in Columbia, SC. As an educator, they integrate dance and visual arts, teaching at performing arts schools and universities across the country. Grace is also currently the artistic director of Nylia Ballet Company.