Exploring Femme Identity Through FEMME, v. Join us for the Zine Launch Party
- julesdiazpetta
- Dec 16, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 13
Recent years have seen a surge in online visibility for masc lesbians, significantly increasing public awareness and acceptance of this group. In contrast, femmes remain substantially underrepresented. They are often questioned or invalidated for not fitting the rigid, outdated ideas of what a lesbian is “supposed” to look like. The FEMME, *v.* Zine launch party this Thursday centers this gap in representation, offering a powerful celebration of identity, art, and community. Through intimate studio portraiture captured on medium format and 35mm film, the project explores femme identity with nuance, intention, and care. Rooted in visual storytelling, FEMME v challenges narrow narratives and creates space for femme lesbians to be seen, affirmed, and celebrated on their own terms.
Queerness Beyond Masculinity
Cultural perceptions of lesbianism have historically been tied to masculinity. This has resulted in a narrow and exclusionary idea of what it means to be a lesbian. The general public lacks awareness and understanding of the ways femmes actively reclaim and redefine femininity outside of the male gaze. They cultivate identities that are deeply queer and self-determined.
Through portraits and interviews, this project provides femme lesbians with a platform to share their unique life experiences. It uses an intersectional framework to explore how factors such as gender identity, race, class, and upbringing shape each person’s distinct understanding of the femme lesbian identity. At its core, Femme, v. affirms that lesbianism and femininity are not inherent contradictions. Rather, they are beautifully intertwined truths that work to expand how the world views the lesbian identity.
FEMME v Zine as a Platform for Visibility and Community
The launch party is more than just a celebration of the zine’s release. It’s a gathering that centers femme and lesbian voices, offering visibility in spaces where these identities are often underrepresented. The magazine format of the zine allows for a curated editorial experience. It combines portraits with personal stories, essays, and artwork.
By focusing on studio portraits, the zine challenges mainstream beauty standards and stereotypes about femme identity. It showcases diversity in appearance, expression, and experience. This inclusivity helps build a sense of community among readers and participants, encouraging dialogue and connection.
What to Expect at the Launch Party
Attending the FEMME v Zine launch party means stepping into a space filled with creativity and affirmation. Here’s what attendees can look forward to:
Viewing the portraits: The studio portraits featured in the zine will be displayed, allowing guests to engage with the images up close.
Meet the artists and subjects: Photographers and those featured in the portraits will be present to share their stories and creative processes.
Film photography: Guests can learn about medium format and 35 mm film techniques used in the project.
Community networking: The event offers a chance to connect with others interested in creating work that celebrates identity, film photography, and queer culture.
The Importance of Representation
Representation matters. It shapes perceptions and influences how individuals see themselves and each other. The FEMME v Zine aims to provide a counter-narrative to the dominant stories often told about lesbians. By showcasing femme identities, it highlights the richness and diversity within the community.
Femme lesbians often face unique challenges. They may encounter skepticism about their identity or feel pressured to conform to societal norms. This zine serves as a reminder that there is no singular way to be a lesbian. Each story is valid and deserving of recognition.
Conclusion
The FEMME v Zine launch party is a pivotal event. It not only celebrates the release of a groundbreaking publication but also fosters a sense of belonging and community. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of femme identities and the importance of representation in the broader cultural landscape.
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