Launched in June 2022, Tulle Queer is an ongoing series of portraits and a yearly photo exhibition that honors 717 based photographer Brady Pappas’ chosen family and the diverse LGBTQ+ icons shaping small-town life in Pennsylvania.

Initially inspired by Pappas' love of using tulle in their fashion photography, Tulle Queer has evolved into a platform for individuals to express themselves confidently and authentically, while highlighting the often-overlooked queer magic that exists in small-town communities. Through the project, Pappas aims to empower participants and create a sacred space where they can feel seen, celebrated, and valued. The annual exhibition typically takes place on the First Friday of June each year for Pride Month.

Tulle Queer "icons" are celebrated through free, on-location photoshoots across South Central PA, with one photo from each shoot selected to show during the exhibition. From its 2022 debut at Waldo’s & Co during Gettysburg Pride to recent exhibitions in 2024 at WestArt in Lancaster, PA, and DreamWrights in York, PA, Tulle Queer thrives in highlighting the diversity and magic of LGBTQ+ culture.

Brady's journey growing up queer in York, Pennsylvania, to embracing their identity as a trans non-binary artist serves as the inspiration for the series. At the age of eighteen, photography became a transformative escape for Brady, leading them to spaces that helped them to cultivate self-love. Now, they aim for their photographs and the legacy of Tulle Queer to inspire similar empowerment in its subjects and viewers. Through this project, Tulle Queer aims to address a void in queer representation, particularly in fashion, beauty, and media, by highlighting the universal magic inherent in all queer individuals.

Press

Lancaster Online: 'Tulle Queer' Celebrates Local LGBTQ+ Community

Fox 43: Tulle Queer Photo Exhibition Celebrate LGBTQ+ Community

For inquiries, contact brady@bradypappas.photography