Homonormative – Jeremiah Crosswhite

Homonormative
Jeremiah Crosswhite

   Jeremiah Crosswhite is a multimedia artist from Louisville, KY. As a psychology and art major at Vanderbilt University, his work is often rooted in research and scientific inquiry. As a queer artist, Jeremiah draws from personal experiences, fears, and observations to explore themes of queer iconography, identity, and representation.
Currently, his work focuses on the concept of normalcy in relation to sexuality, examining how society—often unconsciously—clings to a rigid definition of what is considered “normal,” largely shaped by straight, cisgender white men. Through an interdisciplinary approach that combines printmaking, photography, fashion, installation, and ceramics, Jeremiah creates minimalist works that invite self-reflection and challenge societal norms.

About the installation:

   Homonormative examines societal norms surrounding relationships, particularly the concept of normalcy. Media largely spotlights heterosexual relationships as the embodiment of the “American dream.” While not always explicitly stated, these portrayals reinforce the idea that heterosexuality is the default—implying that same-sex relationships are abnormal. In a world where queer individuals are often viewed as outsiders, evident in the widespread use of anti-queer legislation and rhetoric, this work seeks to affirm same-sex relationships as they truly are: normal.
By layering text, imagery, and soft sculptural components, I invite viewers into an intimate exploration of queer love and connection in a world that continually obscures their reality. In preparation for this installation, queer couples were given film cameras and asked to document their daily lives with their partners. The returned photographs offer a deeply personal glimpse into their everyday life’s providing fragments of raw intimacy that are often absent from mainstream media, which tends to present queer relationships in a shallow, stereotyped manner.
Accompanying the images, love letters serve as one of the most personal expressions of affection. Unlabeled, they emphasize how love transcends sexuality, offering a profound understanding of the longing and devotion present in these relationships.
These texts and images are veiled behind a semi-transparent fabric maze, acting as both an obstruction and a metaphorical smokescreen—mirroring the struggle queer individuals face in seeking authentic representations of themselves. By highlighting queer love and its inherent normalcy, this work challenges the pervasive presence of heteronormativity in society.

The installation: