Winking Queen

Winking Queen is part of the Invasion of the Pines, Fire Island series. It is a work that depicts a moment in the annual 4th of July celebration that takes place in two, primarily gay, parts of Fire Island. Men dress in drag and vogue around Cherry Grove. The town is mobbed with onlookers and folks in drag. Afterwards, they board a ferry and ride to the next town. Upon arrival, they ceremoniously disembark to a cheering crowd in the Pines. The onlookers from Cherry Grove have walked through the woods or the beach to cheer upon their arrival. After that, it's a day of dancing, drinking, and partying. This work depicts an older queen taking part in the celebration. A celebration of the freedom of identity that we should all have access to explore.

CJ Shapiro 

As a member of the LGBTQIA community, as an outspoken feminist, and as a Jewish woman who has experienced discrimination and antisemitism, CJ Shapiro uses her work to highlight social conditions that undermine individual liberty and agency. Her work grapples with issues including violence against women and children, sexual abuse, sexuality, race, and gender. Shapiro’s paintings viscerally expose the impact of, and adaptation to, a society that denies its own exclusion, oppression, and exploitation.

Born and raised in New York City, Caren Jo Shapiro is a visual artist, a psychotherapist, and the co-founder of Endangered Bodies. She holds a Masters in Fine Arts, a Masters in Social Work, and a Postgraduate Therapy Degree specialising in eating disorders. Recent exhibitions include “May I …” at StartaArta in New York, NY and Art for Social Change: DISSENT at Oak Park Art League in Chicago, IL.

Based on our agreement with the artist, 15% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the social movement. Donation will be given to support ACLU.