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Glasgow's Secret Erotic Archive: John Wood's 40-Year Journey to the Gallery

Glasgow's Secret Erotic Archive: John Wood's 40-Year Journey to the Gallery
John Wood's erotic photography of gay leather scene in Glasgow
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For decades, a secret erotic archive lay hidden in a converted attic in Glasgow's West End.

The photographer, John Wood, now 79, is finally showcasing his work in his first solo exhibition at Celine gallery.

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Wood's portraits capture male subjects in various states of undress, often wearing black leather jackets, gloves, and boots.

The images span 20 years, from a 1982 Polaroid titled 'Cal' to a 2002 gelatin silver print of an unnamed man in a leather waistcoat and cap.

Many might assume these photographs were taken in New York during the era of Robert Mapplethorpe or in spaces inspired by Tom of Finland.

In reality, they were created in Glasgow, unbeknown to the world and the neighbors.

Wood describes his work as "collaborative photographs." He often followed the lead of his subjects, who were part of the city's leather subculture.

"They couldn't move very much in their tight leather clothes," he said. "My input regarding the posing was pretty minimal."

He frequently printed duplicates, keeping one set and giving the other to his sitter.

The subjects appeared confident in their leather attire, which they rarely had a chance to wear except at leather bars on weekends.

The context of the images is significant.

Male homosexuality was decriminalized in Scotland only in 1981, the same year the first AIDS cases were diagnosed in the UK.

For these men, Wood's studio provided a space to be confident, strong, and sensual.

D
Editors Team
Author: Daniel
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