Permissible Beauty with Robert Taylor

Written By Falah Ahmad

In this compelling episode, host Nadia Nagamootoo speaks with renowned photographer, Robert Taylor. Robert discusses his impactful journey from the RAF to becoming an acclaimed artist whose work champions black queer visibility and diversity. Robert shares insights about his pioneering, powerful project, "Permissible Beauty," exhibited at Hampton Court Palace, which creatively explored Black queer representation and challenged traditional beauty standards. Delving deeply into topics such as British identity, the transformative potential of art, and his contributions to LGBTQ+ advocacy and women’s visibility in STEM and academia, Robert's story highlights the power of authenticity, courage, and creative expression in challenging societal norms and fostering inclusion.





Key Takeaways

  • Art can challenge traditional standards of beauty and identity, making space for diverse representation.

  • Visibility and representation of marginalised groups in heritage spaces can profoundly impact audience perceptions and foster deeper understanding.

  • Creating dialogue and opening spaces for previously unheard voices requires courage, intentionality, and a willingness to embrace vulnerability.

  • Personal experiences deeply inform artistic expression, leading to transformative social impact.

  • Intersectionality and personal identity are crucial in navigating and reshaping societal narratives.

  • Active allyship and institutional support are essential in successfully advancing diversity and inclusion projects.

Highlights

  • Robert's journey from RAF serviceman to prominent photographer, illustrating diverse pathways to creative expression.

  • The Permissible Beauty project at Hampton Court Palace and its groundbreaking portrayal of black queer narratives.

  • Exploring Britishness and navigating personal identity within predominantly white and traditional spaces.

  • The significant role of chosen families in the queer community, illustrated through the "Four-Sided Triangle" project.

  • Capturing portraits of pioneering women for major institutions like the National Portrait Gallery and Oxbridge colleges, showcasing women’s achievements in STEM and academia.

  • Robert’s reflections on challenging conventional perceptions of beauty, success, and representation in contemporary art and culture.

Links

Falah Ahmad
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