Jasper J. Maurer is an analog photographer based in Berlin. Combining his art with his nerdiness in to gender and queer theory, his work focuses on the themes of (queer) belonging and sexuality. Jasper is part of the collective „Queer Analog Darkroom“.
Instinct Residency Program
October 2023 to October 2024
A BROTHERS TOUCH
by Jasper J. Maurer
A Brothers Touch _ Workshops and Events
• Exploring intimacy through analog photography
Workshop with Jasper J. Maurer // 14 January 2024
• From darkroom fantasies to analog realities: Let’s print our negatives!
Workshop with Jasper J. Maurer & Aimé Dabbadie // 2 February 2024
• Exhibition and Book Launch // 17 October 2024
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A Brothers Touch _ the book
In a raw blend of nostalgia and contemporary sensuality, this collection of black and white photography invites to explore the intimate intersections of trans_sexual desire masculinity, and the body.
Inspired by the aesthetics of Tom of Finland, yet infused with a modern perspective,
the images celebrate trans and non-binary bodies, pushing beyond traditional boundaries to create a visual narrative that is sensual, timeless and provocative.
As a final act of the residency, instinct.berlin supported Jasper in the process of publishing their first book.
148 x 210 cm
Softcover
64 pages
€20.00 EUR
1st Edition, 250 copies
2024 - English
Get your copy >> here
A BROTHERS TOUCH
„A Brothers Touch“ is an art project being implemented as part of a residency at Instinct Berlin by Jasper J. Maurer. The work reinterprets the art of Tom of Finland in
a contemporary way and focuses on trans people.
Tom of Finland‘s illustrations have revolutionized the image of gay men and created a positive, self-confident representation. The inclusion of a trans perspective in the project underscores the fact that cultural representations must evolve to reflect the diversity of queer realities of life.
In our society, men are often reduced to constricted and traditional notions of masculinity. „A Brothers Touch“ aims to use these exaggerated representations to expose the construction of gender as a performative practice.
For gay trans individuals, this is of particular importance as they often find themselves
in a world that marginalizes their identities and expression. The project offers a space
in which they celebrate their authenticity, transgress the boundaries of traditional masculinity, and thus set a living act of resistan- ce against the heteronormative norm.
A special feature of this project is its participatory design. Jasper J. Maurer allows those photographed to express their own fantasies, desires, and longings through images. This allows participants to actively participate in creating their own representation in art and facilitates visual storytelling. The project also aims to create deeper understanding and coalitions between different gender identities and sexual orientations.
„A Brothers Touch“ strives for belonging and community connection between cis and trans people in the arts and within the communities in which they move.
By enabling gay trans and cis people to meet and express their fantasies and desires in artistic ways, the project helps to break down fears of contact and build a bridge between the two groups. Gay cis men can also better understand and support the experiences and challenges of their gay trans brothers, which can lead to a deeper connection and solidarity in the communities.
Carried out as part of a residency at Instinc Berlin from September 2023 to February 2024, the project will be presented as part of a solo show at Village.Berlin.