Fire Island: Out In the Sun

Originally published in HuffPost on April 26, 2015

In conjunction with my exhibition Fire Island: Out In the Sun at the University of Southern California, HuffPost interviewed me about my decade-long photographic exploration of Fire Island's LGBTQ+ communities. The conversation examines the origins of the project, the evolution of Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines, and my commitment to portraying queer life with honesty, dignity, and joy.

We discuss the importance of documenting a community that has played a significant role in LGBTQ+ history while avoiding stereotypes or sensationalism. Rather than focusing on spectacle, my photographs celebrate friendship, individuality, and the vibrant social fabric that has made Fire Island a place of freedom, creativity, and belonging for generations.

Dallas DuBois Performing at the Ice Palace | Cherry Grove Fire Island | koitzThis photograph captures acclaimed drag performer Dallas DuBois on stage at the iconic Ice Palace in Cherry Grove, Fire Island, New York. Part of koitz's documentary photography archive, the image celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife, drag performance, and the enduring cultural legacy of Fire Island.

The interview also explores the artistic influences behind the work, the recognition the project received through its exhibition at the University of Southern California, and my hope that these photographs encourage viewers to see the extraordinary beauty found in everyday moments and the enduring spirit of the Fire Island community.

Read the original interview on HuffPost.