Rio’s Vibrant Queer Community Documented In New Zine

Brazil might be a million kilometres away from Northern Ireland, but that doesn’t mean it’s an entirely alien place. At least that’s the conclusion that photographer William Rice came to after seven years of documenting Rio’s dynamic queer scene. From 2015 to 2022 the Northern Irish image-maker abandoned his job consulting for the likes of Björk, Prince and Sinead O’Connor (to name a few) to experience the Brazilian metropolis first-hand.

In a mesmerising blend of diary entries, anthropological exploration, and fantastical narratives, ‘O NOVO RIO’ emerges as a captivating portrait of Rio de Janeiro's youth. Delving deep into the lives of the city’s queer community the zine sheds light on their everyday struggles and triumphs amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and cultural diversity.

Inspired by his own experiences growing up in Northern Ireland during The Troubles, Rice brings a poignant perspective to his work, drawing parallels between the dislocation of youth in both societies. Against the backdrop of the right-wing government of Jair Bolsonaro, Rice's photographs illuminate how these communities find agency and intimacy amidst oppression.

‘When it came to shooting it felt very natural for me to pursue these themes in Rio and to work with people who come from backgrounds across the sexual and gender spectrums, who have something to say about the world they live in and a fearlessness about expressing themselves despite living in sometimes trying circumstances,' Rice tells me.

The images captured in ‘O NOVO RIO’ span across the city's diverse landscapes, from the iconic shores of Ipanema Beach to the bustling streets of downtown, and even the sprawling favelas that define the urban peripheries. Each location serves as a backdrop for the myriad narratives that unfold within the pages of the book, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in Rio.

Central to Rice's exploration is the theme of identity and self-expression, embodied through the lens of Brazilian fashion and the vibrant nightlife that serves as a refuge for many. Through his evocative photography, Rice captures moments of intimacy, defiance, and solidarity, showcasing the resilience of Rio's youth in the face of adversity.

‘Being queer didn’t stop anyone or anything we did in Rio, which is the irony; when church and state attempt to control people's sexualities it’s simply impossible. Making it unsafe for someone to be themselves only increases their determination. Homo or transphobic legislation doesn’t work - it will never be able to change a single person on the inside. At best it can force people to hide and I hope these images show how that approach isn't working in Rio’

As Rice reflects on the impact of his work, he hopes that 'O NOVO RIO' will not only empower those featured in the zine but also serve as a symbol of unbeatable resilience, both politically and personally. By sharing their stories with audiences around the world, Rice aims to amplify their voices and celebrate their unwavering determination to be themselves, despite the odds stacked against them.

'One of my hopes for this zine is that the people photographed will be able to take pride in their images being shown both inside Brazil and around the rest of the world. Perhaps one day in the future they will look back at the images and they’ll show that politically, and personally, they were unbeatable,' Rice explains. Ultimately, 'O NOVO RIO' stands as a testament to the universal power of self-expression and the resilience of the human spirit, transcending geographical boundaries to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.

'O NOVO RIO' is available now at Dover Street Market.