Earlier this summer I had met up with Matthew for what was meant to be a bright and high-energy portrait shoot featuring his drag persona, Lady Olympia. (Matthew: It is, or so help me God, still happening in the future, by the way)
Upon arriving at his home, I was greeted by his Chi-Pom (or are they Pom-chis? Chipomhua? Pomerhuahua?) Snicket, his ever-kind and thoughtful husband Justin, and a loud HAAY GIRL welcoming me in. Matthew and Justin’s home is basically a little oasis- there’s a thriving garden in the back, the inside is an unusual combination of completely organized and clean but still comfortable without sacrificing style, their cat, Chairman, was happy to offer us a tour alongside Justin. These two are never seen not offering at the very least a single glass of wine and are aficionados of all things hospitality. Prized hype-girl Clementine and Snicket pranced in the sunshine of the yard happily. All this and there was still a change in energy- something quiet.
As it turns out, Matthew had made a life-altering decision to leave his 6 year career and embark on a new one in a completely different industry. JUST. THAT. MORNING.
What followed was a series of going through the motions. No Lady Olympia to come out and play, no extravagant colors, but something so much better- just the pure bravery and vulnerability that comes with looking at something you’ve loved for so long with the knowledge it no longer serves you- and changing your situation. The nakedness of laughing one moment, swallowed by grief another. Being kind to yourself in the tears and celebrating the joy. Looking at the lens and reminding yourself that you are loved.
Honestly? It was intense. Vulnerability is tough. But seeing someone you care for in mourning of a life that they are choosing to leave behind and remaining hopeful and open for their future is a really beautiful and inspiring thing.
Here’s what that looked like.
Thank you for showing up for the shoot, for yourself, and everyone who loves you, Matthew.