Queer Design Club

Dex is an expert illustrator, an author of fun and peculiar fiction, a magical master of dungeons, and can often be found crafting new worlds in his local coffee shop. Put this creative whirlwind to work for you!

How does being queer inform your work?

When I think of my queerness, I find that I can't separate it from the other parts of myself. Each piece of my being and the experiences I've had are woven together to create my own unique perspective. Even before I knew I was trans and gay, queerness colored my art and writing. But I must say, being out and proud has elevated the queer themes I explore now in my work. And not just subjects directly related like dysphoria and queer joy, but also community, found family, what it means to thrive and the strength it takes to be oneself in a world that seeks dull, restricting conformity.

What are your favorite pieces of queer visual culture?

I'm a big fan of animation, and wow are there some amazing and queer ones out there. I'm easy to please, and even just seeing a good representation of someone ftm trans, or nonbinary, or ace, or neurodivergent gets a smile and maybe a tear or two from me.

Which other queer people inspire you?

Can I say a whole category? Because I know an unusually large amount of queer librarians and they are amazing. Librarians are keepers of our history and kindlers of the next generations, and those who are dedicated to preserving queer stories have my deepest respect.