Ash Kolodner was born in Washington, DC, and holds a BFA in commercial photography from the Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara and an MFA in photography from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. In his latest work Gayface he showcases through more than 180 color portraits, along with subject interviews the transformative power of coming out. They were nice enough to take time away from the projects to speak to us about the book.
Q) What inspired you to make your new book Gayface?
The spark came from a moment of reflection—literally. While taking a bath almost a decade ago, I became aware of how different I felt submerged versus when I resurfaced. That shift—between internal safety and external exposure—led me to sketch two quick figures: one with eyes closed, one open. That became the foundation of Gayface, a project about visibility, identity, and the power of being seen exactly as you are.
Q) Why did you decide to use the format of a diptych in this project?
The diptych format—eyes closed, then open—captures the emotional spectrum of each person. The first image reflects vulnerability, introspection, the quiet we all carry. The second reveals openness, identity, strength. It’s about the contrast between how we feel inside and how we present ourselves to the world.
Q) You previously did a similar project back in 2014 GAYFACE 1st Class. In your travels and talks with your subjects, what do you think the biggest changes have been for the community since then?
Over the years, what stands out most is how visibility has increased—but so has pushback. Gayface captures a moment in time where being seen is both powerful and, at times, vulnerable. The people I’ve met through this journey remind me that while progress is happening, the fight for safety and acceptance is far from over.
Q) I saw that you had constructed a coat of arms for the LGBTQ+ community. What made you decide to do that and how did you decide on what elements to include?
The coat of arms was born out of a desire to create a new symbol—something beyond the rainbow flag—that speaks to identity, resilience, and unity. I wanted to give our community a crest, a visual marker of pride that feels familial, historical, and grounded. It became part of the book along with a glossary to make Gayface educational as well as emotional.
Q) You have also worked as a model. Do you think that helps you connect and get the best shot from your subjects?
Absolutely. Having been on the other side of the lens, I know how exposed it can feel. That experience helps me build trust with the people I photograph. I focus on making them feel safe, seen, and empowered. That emotional connection is what makes the image real.
Q) You’ve worked across a variety of mediums—photography, painting, sculpture, installation. Is there any other creative media you’ve thought about using to express yourself?
I’m always exploring new ways to tell stories. Film and immersive installation have been calling to me lately—formats that allow for layered, emotional storytelling that can surround a viewer and provoke deep reflection.
Q) What photographers have shaped your approach to your work?
Irving Penn and Richard Avedon definitely shaped how I see portraiture—especially their ability to strip things down and let the subject’s humanity come through. Their work showed me the power of a simple background, honest lighting, and emotional truth.
Q) Do you have any idea what your next project might be?
Right now, I’m focused on sharing Gayface as widely as possible. But yes—there are seeds of a new project forming. It will likely still center around identity and community, but maybe with more movement or performance involved. I want to keep evolving.
Q) If people want more information about how to pick up Gayface, where should they go?
The book is available at www.gayface.com, and you can follow updates on Instagram at @gayface1stclass or @ashkolodner. That’s where I share upcoming events, press, and behind-the-scenes content.
Q) When the zombies take over the world, where will you be?
Hopefully somewhere remote with good coffee, my camera, and people I love. If I’m going out, I want it to be with art and community around me.
Q) What is your favorite fandom (could be sports, pop culture, favorite director or author)?
In terms of artistic fandom, Kara Walker is someone I deeply admire. Her ability to confront difficult truths through beautiful, challenging work is something I’m constantly inspired by.
Q) What piece of art—be it music, a book, a film, or picture—do you think people must experience before they die?
The Giver really changed how I see the world. It’s a reminder that truth and meaning come from within, and that the world isn’t always what it appears to be on the surface. Everyone should experience a story that teaches them to look again, more deeply.
Q) Give one fact that most people would not believe about you?
Most people are surprised to learn I didn’t learn to read or do math until I was about 11 or 12. I struggled a lot with learning differences, but art was always my way through.