Abril Sigle

@abrilexists

To Be Seen

This project looks at the ballroom scene in the UK; a space full of energy, creativity, and community. Ballroom has its roots in the resilience of Black and Latinx trans women, who built something powerful and joyful in response to the exclusion they faced.

The spirit of that legacy is still alive today; bold, supportive, and full of life. Through these photos, I’ve tried to capture the moments that make ballroom so special: the movement, the attitude, the care between people, and the joy of showing up exactly as you are.

What began as an attempt to document the space quickly became a deeper reflection on care, chosen family, and the politics of visibility. Many of the participants invited me into their space with generosity and trust, and I see this work as a collaboration.

The images are a small glimpse into a world that’s about far more than just performance; it’s about celebration, connection, and holding space for one another.