In her ongoing photographic project, Les Insouciants (the reckless), Lydia Metral documents the true selves of a range of queer-identified individuals.
Every picture aims to meet those involved at their eye level in order to see things from their perspective as closely as possible. This documentary project focuses on people who look, sound, and feel different from society's norms.
Each photograph takes into account the experiences of each individual, internalizes their needs, and presents them in an authentic and passionate manner; “I try to interact with tact and be delicate in order to bring the best out of my models. Some of my models have had very difficult moments, especially with their families and also with themselves. Some were brought up in very harsh environments. Others are more confident and live in a more secure environment. We have to understand that everyone has their own story and every story matters.”
We (the audience) have an opportunity to acquire insight into the lives of individuals who may never be depicted in a more mainstream media setting, knowing that the ideas and overall premise of Les Insouciants are intended to amplify voices and showcase positive diverse body imagery among queer-identifying individuals. As this project is also stated as a tribute to youth, individuality, and diversity, we are reminded of our own lives as we peer into a piece of their lives.
Lydia Metral (Grenoble, 1986) is a self-taught French photographer with a Spanish background. Her personal photography projects include portraits of her friends, lovers, and family as well as documentation of her life and the queer community to which she belongs.
