“Tsupet,” a photo documentary series on the lives of Filipino gays who staff beauty parlors, was showcased at the 2nd Quanzhou International Image Biennial at the Fujian Huaguang Photographic Art Museum in China.
Themed “We Learn the Rules in Order to Break Them,” the exhibition is an assemblage of entries from 40 international arts and design institutions. It serves as an exploration of the differences and similarities of artists under various conditions.
as human beings molded by experiences,” says Fajardo.
Organized by a roster of photography educators from across the globe, it is an exchange program where participants and viewers alike can earn a broader perspective of different communities through diverse lenses.
Following the theme, young creative Lou Russell Fajardo, a photography student from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of New Media Arts, captured the lives of Filipino parloristas in a series of vibrant pictures.
Fajardo, who is part of the LGBTQIA+ community, believes that his subjects “do not get enough recognition” and highlights their role as an inspiration for those who remain in the closet.
Born and raised in Pangasinan, the aspiring photojournalist believes in the power of images to shed light on the struggles of the marginalized. “Through my works, I wish people will see parloristas not as ordinary workers but also as human beings molded by experiences,” he said.
The young photographer hopes to one day see the SOGIE Bill passed into law.
The 2nd Quanzhou International Image Biennial also featured the works of fellow photography students Jyllan Sydrey Bitalac, Macee Tingson and Toni Rose Guinto, whose thought-provoking monochromatic works grace the exhibition catalog.