Ren Cavan
“My identity journey has been about finding and reclaiming my own space, as much as it’s been figuring out what I feel like a rockstar in. I grew up pouring over music mags like Kerrang! and as an adult, actually started writing for them. I found myself in the joy of drumming and biker culture, so the styling for the shoot felt like a no brainer. We said: Let’s bring the metal out.
“Front and centre, my drumsticks and tattoos take the stage. A pair of titanium sunglasses with gothic riffs from The Great Frog and Cutler and Gross are pulled down just enough to see me behind, but still keep a little intrigue. The leather biker vest and Harley tee become a sort of armour in the shot and the hint of red light coming through suggests a touch of danger – something that just came through as an idea in the moment. Putting it all together, I feel powerful and seen; for my younger self and adult self.”
Ren Cavan
Ren Cavan (they/them) is a queer, non-binary Executive Creative Director and founder of Bold Strokes, a London-based creative studio. Half Essex, half Irish, Ren works with brands to create campaigns and experiences that are more inclusive and intersectional. They’re a Forbes-listed leader and a vocal advocate for safer corporate spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Growing up in Essex under Section 28, Ren was surrounded by rigid gender expectations. They felt pressure to hide parts of themselves and present as straight. Community connection later helped them unpack those early restrictions. For Ren, being queer and non-binary means taking back space and choosing both self and community every day.
Coming out as non-binary was a key moment. Sitting with their partner in a London park, they said aloud for the first time that they didn’t feel like a woman and wanted to use they/them pronouns. Their partner’s immediate joy and understanding made Ren feel fully seen and affirmed.
Today, Ren’s style reflects their identity journey. After years of blending in, they now embrace Harley tees, Great Frog rings, denim work vests and a growing collection of tattoos that chart their personal path. Drumming has also become an outlet for self-expression and a way to reconnect with their body.
Ren’s message to their younger self and queer kids today: You’re not alone. There will come a time when you choose your own family, build your community and let your inner light guide and uplift others.
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.