MaryV — Loving You: Documenting Kia Lopez and Chella Man
May 14 — July 10, 2021
Loving You is a solo exhibition featuring the photographic work and performance art of MaryV, a 23-year-old artist based in Brooklyn, New York. The exhibition consists of analog photography from two ongoing bodies of work that document the transitions of Kia Lopez (she/her), MaryV’s childhood friend; and Chella Man (he/him), her partner of four years.
THIS EXHIBITION CONTAINS SENSITIVE IMAGES, MATURE CONTENT, AND NUDITY.
MaryV and Union Hall hope that Loving You challenges viewers’ pre-conceived notions of trans and non-binary experiences, and creates space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as straight allies to navigate our privilege and use our voices to make the world a safer, gentler, more respectful place for all.
I photograph people to honor them
-MaryV
About the Artists
MaryV (she/her) is a 23-year-old photographer and performance artist based in Brooklyn, New York. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, she attended Denver School for the Arts and Parsons, The New School’s photography program in New York City. With a uniquely sensitive approach to her subjects, MaryV focuses on the documentation of self-identity, bodies, intimacy, compassion, relationships, sexuality, and self-love. MaryV has succeeded in advocating for herself through modeling, acting, performance art, as a well known influencer on social media, and a professional image maker. She has appeared on the cover of The New York Times with her partner, artist and activist Chella Man. She had her first solo show gallery at the age of 19 at Space 776 in Brooklyn, New York, displaying her Gold Series and Gold Performance. She created and directed Standing Performance in Washington Square Park, representing and recognizing queer indivuals that have been executed for their sexuality, or are unable to come out safely. She has shot campaigns for clients such as Calvin Klein and Google, remaining true to her mission of creating mindful and inclusive representation for her community.
Image taken by Matt So.
MaryV met Chella Man (he/him) in 2016 in Brooklyn, New York at a college party. They were both in their first year. Chella was double majoring in computer science and economics; and MaryV in photography. When MaryV first saw Chella, his eortlessly cool look caught her attention. Although nervous, she decided to introduce myself. They connected. Later we went on our first date. MaryV did not know it was a date at the time. After many intimate conversations, she stepped into her queerness alongside Chella. MaryV started photographing our relationship and our love. She was later introduced to his family. Chella’s mom, Elena; dad, Dave; and sister, Maya, who are all pictured in this series. Also Chella’s extended family and close friends. They all radiate such an accepting and loving light. Chella now lives and works in New York as an artist and activist.
You can find more about Chella at @chellaman and @chellamanart on Instagram.
MaryV met Kia Lopez (she/her) in 2013 in Denver, Colorado at Denver School of the Arts. MaryV was drawn to her loud style and powerful artistic expression, so she started photographing Kia to capture her unique beauty. From day one Kia’s attitude was “I don’t give a fuck;” yet, she was sensitive and protective. She wanted to protect herself and the people around her that cared about her. MaryV felt comfortable around Kia because she allowed MaryV to be her most authentic self. They shared a genuine connection that continued after high school. At 18 years old, Kia told MaryV that she realized who she has always been, a trans woman. At the time MaryV was also coming into her queerness which made their bond stronger. This led MaryV to start documenting their relationship. She soon got to know Kia’s mom Bianca Lopez (she/her). MaryV admired how accepting she is of Kia; and Kia’s sibling Amayas (they/them). Bianca is an incredible mom to Kia, Amayas, their brother Lalo (he/him), family friend’s DaTarik Box (they/them), Estivalis E. Valle (she/her), and Eli Medina (he/him) who are all pictured in this series. Kia now lives and works in Las Vegas as an artist and dominatrix.
Loving You is generously sponsored by
