2023-07-01 18:01:53
Solis, a young 18-year-old artist, fell into the world of drag in the midst of a health crisis. Her stage name, Solis, is no coincidence: this Latin term meaning “solar” finds its full meaning when she performs on stage, instantly illuminating the room. “I see myself as a global superstar!” she confides.
“Drag is the exaggeration of everything! What you want drag to be for you, it is”
Solis
Drag is an artistic practice in which people, mostly LGBTQIA+, embody an exuberant character for an evening or a performance. “It’s the exaggeration of everything! What you want drag to be for you, it is”, explains the young artist, all smiles. From lipsync (synchronization of lip movement) to singing, dancing and comedy, performance is a centerpiece of drag. Under her flamboyant hair, Solis makes her own costumes and wigs: “I used to draw characters with extravagant outfits. Drag is the best way to express my art.”
Today, Solis recalls the moment she came to terms with her identity: “I was able to go through dark times becoming the bright person I needed.” In itself, drag is a means of expression for the LGBTQIA+ community, which is still heavily discriminated once morest and stigmatized. “In some American states, it is now forbidden to put on clothes whose gender is not the one that was assigned to us at birth,” adds Solis. In Switzerland, at the start of the year, readings of children’s stories with the drag queen Tralala Lita angered some, forcing the discreet intervention of the police to ensure the safety of the artist.
“I was able to get through dark times becoming the bright person I needed.”
Solis
“Too many people still sexualize the queer community. There is a huge lack of critical reflection,” says Solis. To the question “is drag political?” she replies: “He is political at his expense since one cannot help making identities political. In a perfect world, it would just be an art form.” Solis’ next performance will take place at the Etu’Sound festival in Friborg on September 29th.
Instagram: @r.g.solis
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#Solis #rising #drag #star #Friborg