How In Plain Sight Comes Together
Every portrait in In Plain Sight begins with a conversation. The first part of the process is connecting with transgender and nonbinary members of the community who are willing to share their stories. Some are friends or acquaintances, others come through referrals or introductions. My goal is to eventually interview at least one person from every state — creating a project that reaches across geography and experience to form a broader picture of what it means to live openly and authentically.
Once I’ve connected with someone, we schedule an interview. Sometimes I’m able to meet in person; other times we connect over FaceTime. Regardless of the format, I try to create space for an honest exchange. I ask each participant a series of questions focused around love, connection, belonging, and impact — ideas that speak to both the universal and the deeply personal sides of being human.
Emmit sharing about making pancakes with his grandfather. A time of pure, unconditional love from another.
During these conversations, I take a few candid photos. They’re not formal portraits, but small documentary moments — gestures, expressions, or glances that feel true to the person sitting across from me (or through the screen). These images later serve as reference points, helping me remember not just how someone looked, but how it felt to be in conversation with them.
“As a lonely kid, my dog was my friend. They don’t judge or tease. That loyalty is so comforting. Even when they act out, they still love you. It’s similar to nature — there’s safety in that connection.” - Leo
After the interview, I revisit the recording and listen closely. I pull apart the moments that strike me — the pieces of dialogue that carry vulnerability, humor, or an unexpected insight. These become the foundation for both the visual portrait and the accompanying letterpress quote.
Drawing of a hand demonstrating something small
Then I move to the drawing table. With pencil and paper, I start sketching from memory and reference photos, searching for the image that best represents the essence of what was shared. I refine and rework until I find something that feels balanced in both form and emotion.
From there, the sketch is transferred onto a block of linoleum. I carve away the surface, one mark at a time, until the image begins to emerge. The printmaking process involves a lot of experimentation — with ink, pressure, and paper — until I find the version that feels right.
Each final print becomes a visual echo of the conversation that started it — a blend of story, emotion, and craft. Together, they form a growing archive of trans and nonbinary lives, held in print and in plain sight.
If you or someone you know might be interested in participating in In Plain Sight, I’d love to connect. Personal referrals are one of the most meaningful ways this project continues to grow. You can reach out directly through my website or social media — and help bring more voices, more stories, and more perspectives into view.
