Clips from an Interview with Janet Ryan for the WLHP

Janet Ryan in her own words

The first leather I "earned" was the case for my camera. With an art school background and small press photojournalistic experience, I began documenting the leather community in 1987. This work gets up close to dyke, gay and pan communities. I feel privileged to have witnessed so much history and so many changes in the leather family. I'm extremely grateful to everyone who has allowed me to photograph them. Currently working on a limited edition portfolio "Before the Internet: Early New Guard".

A featured Photographer at IMsL 2007

My IMsL highlights began with meeting Judy Tallwing McCarthy at the '87 March on Washington - she was vibrant and inclusive. I helped Ms. MO compete in '92 in San Francisco, the nexus of leatherdyke culture. I've been to Chicago, Philly, San Diego, Atlanta, Vegas, Toronto, Dallas and Omaha. To all who have put up with my bright flashes in the middle of dark bars, thanks for giving me the chance to preserve an authentic record of women who love leather lifestyles.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• lesbian
• imsl
• photographer
• gay
• leather
• fetish interviews