The Sentimentality of Something Unseen: J Davies

The Sentimentality of Something Unseen is a photographic exhibition of new and archival works by artist J Davies exploring both the sensual and the sensuous experiences of queerness. From erotic embraces of candid couples; to lived-in and loved-in beds; to cinematic sunsets; to heaving, hazy dancefloors; and images of decay and destruction, J Davies invites their audience to experience the world through their eyes—reminding us of the perpetual longing for life, and being precious with what you keep hold of, but not too precious. With a fly-on-the-wall, voyeuristic approach, these analogue photographs provide spaces and glimmers for viewers to re-experience the intimate and vulnerable moments shared by the artist and the people depicted within these images. J’s work seeks to share these queer, safe spaces through the sentimentality of photography, re-encountered as romantic remnants, or left-over lust. Like the nostalgic glow of golden hour re-igniting faint feelings shared with friends and whānau, The Sentimentality of Something Unseen is an exhibition that celebrates holding on to the lingers of love in whatever form feels appropriate.