Ebony Rose Dark
Ebony is sitting in a dark leather barbershop chair.
“For this Barbershop Chair Photoshoot, I’m giving you V.I.P LGBTQ+ representation as I’m fully aware of the ongoing need to create awareness of Visually Impaired LGBTQ+ people in the community. One also hopes that it encourages more V.I. LGBTQ+ people to attend more LGBTQ+ Events and Venues and to be seen.
“I chose the look because I wanted to wear colours that contrasted against the dark leather chair, and as a visually impaired person myself, clear, bold contrast is very important to me.
“I’ve known Chris Jepson as a photographer for many years, and it’s always a joy to be a part of his creative photography projects.
“I’ve always felt comfortable and at ease when sitting for Chris, and so this photo shoot was fabulous, and I enjoyed every second of it. Chris is also very much aware of my access needs, which makes everything a whole lot easier and smooth sailing.
“My legs are hanging over the right arm of the chair crossed, but at an angle posing for the camera, hands holding two long canes which both have black handgrips and white roller tips. One cane is black and white and the other is black and silver. The canes are held in a cross position just enough so I can peer through the bottom triangle. There is an open smile on my face and my hair is black and curly.
“I am wearing silver earrings along with a glittery tactile blue dress with capped arms with tasselled ends . Thrown over my shoulders is a metallic coloured jacket with rainbow tassels all over it. The dress is full length, finishing just at my ankles, and has a split in the back. I wear black tights which contrasts against my 4 and a half inch platform, MaryJane white shoes.”
Ebony Rose Dark
Ebony Rose Dark is a visually impaired cabaret and performance artist known for their powerful blend of lip syncing, storytelling, mime and dance. Their work shines a light on disability, ableism, racism and LGBTQ+ relationships.
They first found their voice on stage at Bar Wotever and the Royal Vauxhall Tavern, and have since performed at UK Prides, Mighty Hoopla, with Marlborough Productions and with David Hoyle.
Ebony focuses on making cabaret accessible to LGBTQ+ visually impaired audiences. They recently premiered their first full-length solo show – complete with audio description – at The Place in London.
For Ebony, being queer means being real and true to yourself. Their identity flows through movement and performance, where they feel most seen.
Their message to queer kids:
“Take your time. Be true to who you are. There’s no need to rush.”
This is UNCUT — a raw, striking portrait series by award-winning photographer Chris Jepson capturing the power and pride of Queer Joy, shot in a barber’s chair. No filters, no retouching, no compromise. Just bold, beautiful people taking up space exactly as they are.