Bisexual artists are people who identify themselves as having sexual and romantic attraction to both men and women, without necessarily being attracted equally to each gender. They represent a significant portion of human society, but many people still consider bisexuality taboo, particularly when it comes to artistic expression. Bisexual artists face prejudice from all sides - they may be shunned by gay or straight communities for not conforming to their expectations. They can also struggle with internalized biphobia - the belief that bisexuality is shameful or inferior.
Some bisexual artists have challenged these social myths through their work, using creative ways to express their identities, desires, and authenticity.
One example of a bisexual artist is singer/songwriter Halsey, who has spoken publicly about her own struggles with bisexual identity. In her song "Strangers," she sings, "I don't fit into your box, like a triangle tries to." The lyric refers to the common perception that bisexual people do not fall neatly into one category or another, and that they often experience confusion and frustration in trying to find acceptance within society. In her music video for the song, Halsey wears a dress made of puzzle pieces, representing how society forces bisexual people to try to fit into boxes that don't quite match them. She also features a same-sex kiss between two women, challenging the idea that bisexuals cannot truly love someone of either sex.
Another example is poet Ocean Vuong, whose collection of poems, Night Sky With Exit Wounds, explores themes of identity, desire, and loss. One poem, "Someday I'll Love Ocean Vuong," addresses his bisexuality directly, describing it as a part of his identity he must live with despite its societal stigma: "And if someday I say yes to you / And no to him, then maybe there's hope / For all those lonely girls / Who feel they were born wrong, too." By writing openly about his sexuality, Vuong helps normalize bisexuality and challenges preconceived notions about what it means to be an artist with a non-traditional sexual orientation.
Artist Kehinde Wiley has used his work to challenge ideas about gender roles and masculinity, creating large-scale portraits of Black men dressed in opulent clothing against ornate backgrounds. Many of his subjects are depicted with their genitals exposed, challenging traditional views of male beauty and sexuality. He also includes female models in his paintings, suggesting that men can be attractive without conforming to strict gender norms. His work encourages viewers to reconsider social myths about masculine identity and sexual desire, while celebrating the beauty of Black bodies regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
Actor Matt Bomer is another bisexual artist who uses his work to break down barriers around sexuality. In The Normal Heart, he played a character who contracts AIDS through sexual contact with other men, a storyline that was initially met with resistance by Hollywood executives because of its controversial subject matter.
The film went on to win critical acclaim and awards for its realistic depiction of gay relationships during the AIDS crisis. By playing a role traditionally considered straight, Bomer showed that bisexual people can be successful actors, and that stories about LGBTQ+ characters should not be limited to one particular group.
Bisexual artists have used their work to challenge social myths about identity, desire, and authenticity. They have created art that explores complex issues like bisexual identity, masculinity, and societal expectations. Through their creative expression, they help normalize non-traditional sexualities and encourage society to rethink preconceived ideas about gender and sexuality. As more artists continue to speak out about their own experiences, we may see further progress toward greater acceptance and understanding of bisexuality as an authentic part of human diversity.
How do bisexual artists use their work to challenge social myths about identity, desire, and authenticity?
Bisexual artists can employ various strategies to challenge social myths about identity, desire, and authenticity through their artistic output. They may create works that represent nonbinary identities and relationships, which can help to destigmatize sexual fluidity and gender diversity. Bisexual artists might also explore themes of desire and intimacy across different genders, subverting normative narratives around monogamy and exclusivity.