9 sex-positive and striking portraits of kink, from tattoos to gimp masks

We’ve already got Salt-N-Pepa in our heads…

Why? Because VOYEUR, a new photography and film exhibition by Matt Ford is quite literally talking about sex. It features a diverse mix of subjects spilling the beans on their private and often unique intimate lives.

From sex workers to giant inflatable kink fans, the raw, striking imagery is intended to inspire questions about sexuality and sensual practices that are often maligned or pushed to the fringes. You can keenly observe at London’s Espacio Gallery until 4 December.

Furthermore, it will after this be on display — alongside more of Ford’s work — at female-managed strip club, 23 Paul Street.

Here, Ford offers some insight behind nine of the project’s most compelling images…

1 Jordan Tannahill

Jordan is a well-known character from the gay kink scene. I spotted him in another magazine (Butt, if you are allowed to mention that…) after he wrote an amazing article with Tom of Finland‘s muse and ex-partner Durk Dehner.

Jordan’s style is so laid back and cool, and he’s totally unashamed about his kinks and fetishes. 

2 Oskar

Oskar was the first shoot for the project and also features in one of the short video portraits showing at the gallery space.

Even though the style of Tom of Finland could be considered old school and part of queer history nowadays, Oskar proves that the aesthetic and lifestyle that the legendary artist depicted will carry on in another form for at least another generation.

3 Black Peppa

This outfit and leather mask was featured on the opening episode of this year’s Drag Race UK, and was made by queer designers Fetish Daddy Gear.

The actual mask will be on display at the space. It’s inspired by traditional fetish masks sold in the shops around Hamburg.

4 Jordan Tannahill and BLGrubber

Directing two gimps in kink gear that forces sensory deprivation is as hard as it sounds. Directing the subjects when they can’t see or hear you became like a real-life playing with dolls. I just had to physically move their limbs with my hands to get them in position

5 Antovacca

Antovacca has a full body of tattoos. They are literally a work of art and reference Japanese heritage. I find the sensuality of giving your body up for something like this fascinating.

At the gallery space we will have five close up of his body. This image will be reserved for the other part of the exhibition showing exclusively at the club 23 Paul street. 

6 Neco London

Neco London is an artist I’ve worked with a few times now. He will be performing his new single (that came out 25 November) at my exhibition afterparty. In the harness is Ashley Reece.

The song ‘Leather Action and the photo seem the perfect fit for the exhibition.

7 Eddy

Eddy is a trans male porn star and sex worker. I’ve shot a few sex workers for my exhibition. As I wanted to hear about their experiences on the front line. As a trans porn star, I wanted to explore how Eddy is redefining masculinity in his own way.

Eddy will he a guest speaker at The S*x Workers Forum panel on the 1st of December. Four sex workers and a host will be discussing important issues related to the industry. From law, safety, public opinion and health.

8 Davide

As with a lot of my work, the image is a brutal mash up of feminine and masculine sexuality.

9 Will Rockville

Will shared his story with me in one of the video portraits at the gallery.

He talks about rediscovering his sexual and social life after a big breakup and misconceptions of what sexuality can be when your are over 60.

To buy, or for more information, visit mattfordstudio.com.