FEATURED STORIES
How can life be lived through the lens of pleasure?
At this moment, for me, it looks like frolicking in nature, having wholesome orgasms, and
MAGAZINE
The original ICONIQA in print. Issue No. 1 — 300+ pages of queer artistry, in softcover and hardcover. Issue No. 2 is now AVAILABLE →
ICONIQA BLOG
Fashion
On July 2, 2024, Brooklyn became the backdrop for a powerful celebration of identity, expression, and unity, as the collaborative video project "Queer Excellence: Brooklyn” took to the streets.
Introduction Haley Varacallo: the Brooklyn-based photographer and art director transforming imagination into vibrant, otherworldly visuals. With a love for bold colors, dramatic lighting, and playful storytelling, Haley’s work blurs the line between dream and reality. Her creations celebrate individuality, queerness, and the art of self-expression, inviting you into a world that’s as magical as it is unapologetically unique.
For Brian, fashion transcends the seams and stitches—it is freedom personified. Freedom to tell stories, rewrite norms, and redefine identity on their own terms. This journey began at the age of 13, when their hands first guided fabric and thread into something entirely new. In that instant, fashion became more than craft; it became language, art, and a tool for transformation.
Emolsa Haasacha is a New York City based Ugandan fashionista/stylist, artist and model. Born and bred in Uganda, a developing country at odds with gender fluidity and where gender expressions is considered an anomaly. A boiling desire to break free from all society’s stereotypes was the foundation for his quest to championing change and visibility in his community.
Frank Betancort es todo un estado de ánimo, un prisma deslumbrante de alegría queer y delicadeza de la moda, proveniente de las soleadas y animadas costas de Lanzarote en las Islas Canarias. Ha estado incendiando las pasarelas desde Milán/Paris hasta Zúrich y Ciudad de México, no solo con su impresionante apariencia sino también con una expresión valiente de su fluidez de género que es tan refrescante como la brisa del mar. Imagínatelo: un camaleón lingüístico, que habla cuatro idiomas con fluidez y que hace conexiones más profundas que la última puntada de un vestido de alta costura, al mismo tiempo que encarna la esencia de un alma antigua con un toque moderno.
Frank Betancort is an entire mood, a dazzling prism of queer joy and fashion finesse, hailing from the sunny, spirited shores of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. They've been setting the runways ablaze from Milan/ Paris to Zurich to Mexico City, not just with their killer looks but with a fearless expression of their gender fluidity that’s as refreshing as a sea breeze. Picture them: a linguistic chameleon, fluent in four languages, making connections deeper than the last stitch on a haute couture gown, all while embodying the essence of an old soul with a modern twist.
Hanabi is a standout figure in the Parisian arts scene, seamlessly blending dance, fashion, and music into a unique expression of creativity. Known for their voguing roots, Hanabi’s journey began with a photoshoot opportunity on La Croisette in Cannes. Despite initial rejections for being "too short" or "too different," their persistence paid off when they joined the House of Ladurée, where they honed their voguing skills and found their voice.
Nestled in Barcelona's historic Gothic Quarter, Yōten is not just a beauty atelier; it's a revolutionary space where history meets modern, inclusive beauty practices. Owned by two queer stylists, Yōten offers a safe, genderless environment with eco-friendly products.
ArtS and Culture
How can life be lived through the lens of pleasure?
At this moment, for me, it looks like frolicking in nature, having wholesome orgasms, and
What if the story of Adam and Eve was never about sin?
What if it was never about shame, exile, or punishment?
What if the fall was not a fall at all—but a rise?
The Queer Garden of Eden is a bold new short film and visual project that reimagines one of the oldest narratives in Western culture through a queer lens—transforming a story of blame into one of liberation.
Amelia Jane Hunter is not just a comedian; she’s an entire experience—a raucous, riotous, rib-tickling ride through life’s most scandalous, strange, and spectacular corners. Originally from Australia, where the fauna is venomous and the humor dry, Amelia now splits her time between Berlin, the land of smoldering stares and immaculate cheekbones, and Barcelona, a city as sizzling and saucy as she is. Think of her as a comedy tornado: she’s bold, brazen, and absolutely unstoppable, leaving laughter and a touch of confusion in her wake.
What do we look for when we observe a work of art? What resonates with us as the audience? How does our own individuality shape our perception of films and how do we analyze them in a broader context? Well, what you see in a film often depends on the angle you choose to look at it from. A queer reading of a movie is one way of approaching that issue. Many people would get shocked or offended by the simple notion that a film might have, as little as, homosexual subtext in it, let alone openly queer characters.
For years, queer culture has been an undercurrent—its influence undeniable but often uncredited in mainstream art. Now, the tide has turned. Queer voices are no longer whispering from the edges; they’re reshaping the entire conversation, bringing fresh perspectives that challenge conventions and celebrate difference. What was once marginalized is now celebrated openly, creating a creative explosion that reverberates across fashion, music, dance, and beyond.
Queer artists are redefining the art scene by using digital platforms to create, share, and market their work in dazzling new ways. These platforms are not just showcases of vibrant artistic expressions; they are virtual havens of inclusivity and creativity.
Queer spaces, dynamic and multifaceted, are far more than just urban locations. They are critical hubs of cultural and social exchange, shaping cityscapes around the globe. From bars to bookstores, community centers to public plazas, these areas serve as both sanctuaries for LGBTQIA+ individuals and engines of urban art and cultural progress. Their reach extends beyond their immediate communities, influencing wider urban development and enriching cultural conversations.
In the vibrant spectrum of human experiences, the story of an LGBTQIA+ individual's journey towards self-acceptance and expression is a narrative rich with metaphorical resonance. It's akin to the life cycle of a flower, each stage from seed to full bloom symbolising a significant phase in their path to self-realisation and advocacy. This editorial explores these stages, reflecting on the profound journey of blooming within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Sagittaria is set to SLAY! Diego Sousa chatted with Saggitaria about her ICONIQA debut what to expect and what she thinks of Gottmik.
ICONIQA: A Bold Celebration of Queer Creativity and Culture
ICONIQA is more than an event—it’s an electrifying experience where art, fashion, music, and community collide. Designed to celebrate and elevate queer culture, ICONIQA serves as a vibrant platform that showcases the boundless creativity of LGBTQ+ talent, both local and global.
From cutting-edge fashion shows featuring queer designers to awe-inspiring performances across drag, dance, vogue, aerial acts, boylesque, and beyond, ICONIQA redefines traditional event experiences with a flair for the extraordinary. Attendees can immerse themselves in a high-energy lewk contest judged by industry icons, a dance floor pulsing with beats from top DJs, and interactive spaces designed to connect, inspire, and celebrate community.
Every corner of ICONIQA is a visual spectacle, meticulously crafted to dazzle—from breathtaking set designs to Instagram-worthy photo ops. With exclusive meet-and-greets with internationally renowned headliners and the opportunity to engage with bold, authentic storytelling, ICONIQA is an unforgettable night of celebration, connection, and empowerment.
Join us for ICONIQA, where diversity is not just embraced—it’s celebrated in every moment, every performance, and every lewk. This is the future of queer culture, and you’re invited to be part of it.
Music
![Soundscapes and Style: Lecomte de Brégeot’s Journey Through Music and Fashion [Eng]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6745986484692b3edb682729/1732719845937-AECEQVYS06DL793FHCR8/IMG_8728_d.jpg)
In the heart of Tokyo, a city where fashion, culture, and tradition intermingle in a captivating tapestry, there emerges a luminous figure who refuses to be confined by boundaries.
Aisho Nakajima, a 26-year-old artist, stands at the intersection of vibrant self-expression, embracing queerness, and redefining Tokyo's creative landscape.
I will take you on a journey into Aisho's world, where makeup, fashion, visual arts, and music converge to create a vision of artistry that is wholly and unapologetically his own.
Kuntessa, an electrifying presence in East London's music scene, brings her distinctive blend of DIY pop from the picturesque landscapes of Italy to the bustling urbanity of the Thames. Her debut EP, "Pussy Pitstop," is a kaleidoscope of sound that deftly navigates the realms of punk, R&B, and bubblegum pop, wrapped in a package of erotic themes and camp, tongue-in-cheek humor. Her music, known for its unforgettable melodies and vivid storytelling, draws listeners into a world where the lines between satire and sincerity blur, inviting them into the depths of her imaginative universe.
Opening Hearts with Harmony: The Journey Behind ATAYI's 'Heart'" delves into the profound narrative and creative process behind ATAYI's emotionally charged single, "Heart."
Born from a place of personal reflection and the universal experience of navigating through pain and rejection, this editorial piece explores how "Heart" serves as both a musical mantra and a visual narrative that champions the power of openness and love. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Ibiza and intertwined with the healing presence of horses, the story behind the song is a testament to music's ability to heal and transform.
Through intimate collaborations and a deep dive into personal vulnerabilities, ATAYI, the artistic alter ego of Alex Forge, offers a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of life's inevitable challenges.
The influence of queer culture on electronic music is not just about the music itself but about the deep transformation and expression it represents. This connection showcases how electronic music has been a platform for the queer community to express identity, creativity, and resistance. The genre acts as a voice for those whose stories are intertwined with love, struggle, and victory, reflecting the diverse experiences of the queer community.
Step into Barcelona’s spunky world of artistry and self-expression, and you'll encounter the unmistakable presence of Yazmina Gasolina. Exploring her domain feels like wandering through a gallery of identity, where each melody and each twerk narrates tales of courage, strength, and unwavering genuineness. Amidst the eclectic energy of the local music and queer community, Yazmina's artistic charisma lights a path of self-discovery and resilience, inviting all to embrace the beauty of authenticity.
LEWKS
Symone was that girl! Check out a select gallery of meet and greet photos below, snapped by Pedro Quintana, and click on the link below the gallery to download the full album of photos.
Gigi Goode Meet and Greet photos are up!
Snapped by Pedro Quintana. See you next on May 12th with SYMONE!
Gottmik headlined ICONIQA 3 and it was a MOOD. Join us next on Sunday December 3rd for ICONIQA 4 with TAYCE (Drag Race UK) + MARINA (Drag Race Spain). The theme is BODY + SKIN.
ICONIQA: A Bold Celebration of Queer Creativity and Culture
ICONIQA is more than an event—it’s an electrifying experience where art, fashion, music, and community collide. Designed to celebrate and elevate queer culture, ICONIQA serves as a vibrant platform that showcases the boundless creativity of LGBTQ+ talent, both local and global.
From cutting-edge fashion shows featuring queer designers to awe-inspiring performances across drag, dance, vogue, aerial acts, boylesque, and beyond, ICONIQA redefines traditional event experiences with a flair for the extraordinary. Attendees can immerse themselves in a high-energy lewk contest judged by industry icons, a dance floor pulsing with beats from top DJs, and interactive spaces designed to connect, inspire, and celebrate community.
Every corner of ICONIQA is a visual spectacle, meticulously crafted to dazzle—from breathtaking set designs to Instagram-worthy photo ops. With exclusive meet-and-greets with internationally renowned headliners and the opportunity to engage with bold, authentic storytelling, ICONIQA is an unforgettable night of celebration, connection, and empowerment.
Join us for ICONIQA, where diversity is not just embraced—it’s celebrated in every moment, every performance, and every lewk. This is the future of queer culture, and you’re invited to be part of it.
Humans of ICONIQA 3, captured by Pedro Quintana. Looking forward to seeing you on December 3rd at ICONIQA 4.
ICONIQA: A Bold Celebration of Queer Creativity and Culture
ICONIQA is more than an event—it’s an electrifying experience where art, fashion, music, and community collide. Designed to celebrate and elevate queer culture, ICONIQA serves as a vibrant platform that showcases the boundless creativity of LGBTQ+ talent, both local and global.
From cutting-edge fashion shows featuring queer designers to awe-inspiring performances across drag, dance, vogue, aerial acts, boylesque, and beyond, ICONIQA redefines traditional event experiences with a flair for the extraordinary. Attendees can immerse themselves in a high-energy lewk contest judged by industry icons, a dance floor pulsing with beats from top DJs, and interactive spaces designed to connect, inspire, and celebrate community.
Every corner of ICONIQA is a visual spectacle, meticulously crafted to dazzle—from breathtaking set designs to Instagram-worthy photo ops. With exclusive meet-and-greets with internationally renowned headliners and the opportunity to engage with bold, authentic storytelling, ICONIQA is an unforgettable night of celebration, connection, and empowerment.
Join us for ICONIQA, where diversity is not just embraced—it’s celebrated in every moment, every performance, and every lewk. This is the future of queer culture, and you’re invited to be part of it.
Check out photos from the LEWK + RUNWAY contest at our last ICONIQA. Want to compete? Be one of the first 50 humans to sign up for the contest upon arrival with Victoria Banks. You must be a themed lewk to enter. The category is BODY + SKIN.
ICONIQA: A Bold Celebration of Queer Creativity and Culture
ICONIQA is more than an event—it’s an electrifying experience where art, fashion, music, and community collide. Designed to celebrate and elevate queer culture, ICONIQA serves as a vibrant platform that showcases the boundless creativity of LGBTQ+ talent, both local and global.
From cutting-edge fashion shows featuring queer designers to awe-inspiring performances across drag, dance, vogue, aerial acts, boylesque, and beyond, ICONIQA redefines traditional event experiences with a flair for the extraordinary. Attendees can immerse themselves in a high-energy lewk contest judged by industry icons, a dance floor pulsing with beats from top DJs, and interactive spaces designed to connect, inspire, and celebrate community.
Every corner of ICONIQA is a visual spectacle, meticulously crafted to dazzle—from breathtaking set designs to Instagram-worthy photo ops. With exclusive meet-and-greets with internationally renowned headliners and the opportunity to engage with bold, authentic storytelling, ICONIQA is an unforgettable night of celebration, connection, and empowerment.
Join us for ICONIQA, where diversity is not just embraced—it’s celebrated in every moment, every performance, and every lewk. This is the future of queer culture, and you’re invited to be part of it.
Black cat showcased their collexion at ICONIQA and the crowd was living for the lewks. Check out photos from the show.
ICONIQA: A Bold Celebration of Queer Creativity and Culture
ICONIQA is more than an event—it’s an electrifying experience where art, fashion, music, and community collide. Designed to celebrate and elevate queer culture, ICONIQA serves as a vibrant platform that showcases the boundless creativity of LGBTQ+ talent, both local and global.
From cutting-edge fashion shows featuring queer designers to awe-inspiring performances across drag, dance, vogue, aerial acts, boylesque, and beyond, ICONIQA redefines traditional event experiences with a flair for the extraordinary. Attendees can immerse themselves in a high-energy lewk contest judged by industry icons, a dance floor pulsing with beats from top DJs, and interactive spaces designed to connect, inspire, and celebrate community.
Every corner of ICONIQA is a visual spectacle, meticulously crafted to dazzle—from breathtaking set designs to Instagram-worthy photo ops. With exclusive meet-and-greets with internationally renowned headliners and the opportunity to engage with bold, authentic storytelling, ICONIQA is an unforgettable night of celebration, connection, and empowerment.
Join us for ICONIQA, where diversity is not just embraced—it’s celebrated in every moment, every performance, and every lewk. This is the future of queer culture, and you’re invited to be part of it.
Meet and Greet photos with Gottmik captured by Pedro Quintana.
ICONIQA: A Bold Celebration of Queer Creativity and Culture
ICONIQA is more than an event—it’s an electrifying experience where art, fashion, music, and community collide. Designed to celebrate and elevate queer culture, ICONIQA serves as a vibrant platform that showcases the boundless creativity of LGBTQ+ talent, both local and global.
From cutting-edge fashion shows featuring queer designers to awe-inspiring performances across drag, dance, vogue, aerial acts, boylesque, and beyond, ICONIQA redefines traditional event experiences with a flair for the extraordinary. Attendees can immerse themselves in a high-energy lewk contest judged by industry icons, a dance floor pulsing with beats from top DJs, and interactive spaces designed to connect, inspire, and celebrate community.
Every corner of ICONIQA is a visual spectacle, meticulously crafted to dazzle—from breathtaking set designs to Instagram-worthy photo ops. With exclusive meet-and-greets with internationally renowned headliners and the opportunity to engage with bold, authentic storytelling, ICONIQA is an unforgettable night of celebration, connection, and empowerment.
Join us for ICONIQA, where diversity is not just embraced—it’s celebrated in every moment, every performance, and every lewk. This is the future of queer culture, and you’re invited to be part of it.
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