The pictures of Nelson Morales are simply fascinating because they provide an extremely refreshing view on issues of gender, the body, identity and sexual diversity.
Perhaps this is because Nelson, 39, found his own identity muxe through photography and has never stopped exploring through it.
Traditionally the muxes, people known as the third gender in the Zapotec region of the Isthmus of Oaxaca, assume female roles in different areas, but this does not determine their sexual orientation. Therefore, a muxe can only be identified as a muxe.
When one observes the work of this Oaxacan, one can perceive that there is a different connection with what he managed to capture through his lens. He goes from completely surreal to totally erotic scenes, but never loses that touch of intimacy as he bonds with each work.
Nelson Morales is part of the talents of the ArtSpaceMexico Gallery From Mexico City, so we invite you to get to know him a little better through Bio Fahrenheit.
Did you study art or are you self-taught?
I studied Communication Sciences and also contemporary photography programs.
Describe your profession in one sentence.
Say in images what you feel and think, what is relevant not only for me.
What was the first work that marked you to start your path in art?
Magnolia, by Graciela Iturbide.
What is your place of inspiration or reflection?
My place of origin: Union Hidalgo, Oaxaca.
Favorite meeting point with friends.
Meetings in our houses or some tavern.
What was your first work?
My first important series: Ranchu Gubiña Muxe
Three creators you admire.
Graciela Iturbide, Roger Ballen and Ana Casas Broda.
What does creating mean to you?
Express myself, be free, talk about issues that are important.
What is the most important thing in your day to day?
Being faithful in what I think and believe, in addition to fighting for my goals.
In three words, how do your close ones describe you?
Transgressive, irreverent and daring.
Something you want to add.
My photographic work has been a turning point in my personal life, it has changed me in a critical and positive way, it has also made me a more aware person of the world in which we live.
