At the cross-section of fashion and fantasy, you’ll find Brady Pappas. A non-binary artist and digital creative, Brady uses the camera as a tool to illuminate the queer culture in South Central Pennsylvania. With a goal of immortalizing the underground queer life in their region known as the 717, Brady has made a staple of themself as the it-photographer documenting the joys and celebrations that take place in the nightlife scene at drag shows, dance parties, and gay bars, capturing the essence of community with unparalleled intimacy.

Beyond the dance floor, Brady’s artistic vision establishes a sacred realm within small-town life through their yearly exhibition “Tulle Queer.” Launched in June of 2022, this collection of colorful portraits, adorned with tulle fabric, pays homage to their chosen family and the array of LGBTQ+ icons shaping small-town life in Central Pennsylvania. Inspired by their journey growing up in York PA, Brady strives to create the representation and celebration they yearned for during their formative years. Tulle Queer exhibits throughout South Central PA every summer for Pride Month.

From immortalizing queer nightlife events to their curated work in Tulle Queer, Brady’s photography serves as a testament to the resilience and beauty of LGBTQ+ life thriving in overlooked small towns. Recognized for their impact on local LGBTQ+ communities, Brady received the Rising Star Award from the LGBT Center of Central PA in fall 2022. Most recently, they spoke at the LGBT Center’s 16th Annual GSA Summit and were featured in a six-page spread in the Fearless Issue of Local Wolves Magazine in April 2024. Read the full piece.

For inquiries, contact brady@bradypappas.photography