Via ACCIDENTAL BEAR:
Diversity is something we try to highlight, young or old, hairy or smooth, purple or yellow, one ball or two. Gay culture is dominated by young, one dimensional types in gay and lesbian magazines and media. The only place I have seen men older than 30 appreciated is in the porn industry. These two artists have set out to find men over 50 and put them on a pedestal. We may prefer our men covered in fur around these parts, but see the beauty in all men:
“Tommy + Alan photography is helmed by photographer Tommy Wu and multimedia designer Alan Reade, who are partners in life and work. The Los Angeles duo’s goal is to push the boundaries of editorial and commercial photography and to rebel against what is called sexy. For many of the “Men Over 50,” who talk openly about both their triumphs and struggles in a series of accompanying audio clips, the picture we see is of a man who beat back adversity and came out looking great.”
READ THE FULL STORY AT THE ADVOCATE!
Good one. 20 years ago ’50 and over’ was a kink with its own magazines. Now it’s websites, and the kink is ’30 and over’.
Gay culture got mainstream the same time it got shallow. Coincidence?
Certain aspects of “gay culture” (whatever that is), just like “straight culture,” have always been shallow. Goes with the territory. We just notice it more now because it is indeed more mainstream. And, overall, that’s a good thing. However, I disagree with the premise that the “only place” men over 30 are appreciated is in the porn industry. Really? Certain niche markets, to be sure (like anything else) – but overall, I don’t think so. In fact, I believe the opposite is true.
I’m 55 now and just feel like I’m hitting my stride.