I chronicle a new form of femininity in Trophy. I document the marks and bruises on women who participate in contact sports such as Roller Derby. Bruises on women are commonly understood to connote domestic violence. I subvert this assumption by presenting my peer’s proud display of their badges of honour.
This project emerges from my own participation in Roller Derby. ‘Derby Kisses’ as we affectionately call our bruises, are an indication of a game well played, the line of defence against scoring passes or a brace of support to teammates. I take part both as photographer and skater, and so my point of access is privileged. I am able to share the joy of bruises, the highs of victory and the marks of activity with my subjects. I make photographs from this position of celebration, rather than of shame.
This project emerges from my own participation in Roller Derby. ‘Derby Kisses’ as we affectionately call our bruises, are an indication of a game well played, the line of defence against scoring passes or a brace of support to teammates. I take part both as photographer and skater, and so my point of access is privileged. I am able to share the joy of bruises, the highs of victory and the marks of activity with my subjects. I make photographs from this position of celebration, rather than of shame.
