Brian Rau (he/him)
Brian Rau is an illustrator and graphic designer who lives and works in Chicago. He does commercial work for brands and agencies in addition to producing original work that he sells in his web shop at brianrau.com. Rau’s work combines myriad textures, geometric shapes and a minimalist color palette to tell stories of strength, motion, tension, harmony, love, nature and humanity.
“Eyes are the window to the soul.’ For Lucy & Yak, I focused on self-expression and inner beauty. When someone embraces a drag persona, they often exude a level of confidence and charisma that comes from within. This empowerment allows them to overcome insecurities and societal judgments, highlighting their inner strength and self-assurance. The confidence projected through drag is a reflection of their inner beauty and self-belief.
Performing in drag, especially in environments that may not be entirely accepting, requires immense courage and resilience. This bravery and perseverance in the face of adversity highlight the performer’s inner beauty and strength of character. In essence, drag is a powerful medium through which individuals can express the depths of their inner beauty. It allows performers to channel their creativity, confidence, emotions, humour, and compassion, creating a vibrant and authentic expression of who they truly are.’