Jessica Payne - BA (Hons) Photography
No Loitering
ess’ final photography project No Loitering explores alternative expressions of feminine fashion and identity, challenging traditional and commercialised notions of what it means to ‘look’ or ‘dress’ feminine. Through a series of portraits, the work captures individuals who embrace nonconforming aesthetics by mixing punk, goth and other styles to create their own versions of femininity.
The title ‘No loitering’ is typically a warning to move along, to not linger and take up space. In this project it becomes a bold act of reclamation and defiance. It challenges the notion that women and femmes who express themselves through nonconventional fashion are loitering on the edges of society. Instead, they’re occupying space with purpose, presence and power. No Loitering becomes a call to action, to make noise, and stand out rather than quietly existing within the typical societal standards we see today.
