I asked Dabby Longlegs to write a guest post because I wanted to learn more about their work as an artist and teacher, and share what they do, with you. I enjoy this post for the story of an artist’s path from childhood shame to queer freedom. And I love body positivity / body liberation. It’s great to have another voice speak on this sex blog. Thank you for learning about the work of this dynamic artist. –Nest
Hi, my name is Dabby Longlegs! I am a multi disciplinary artist, otherwise known as a Renaissance human or jack-of-all-trades. For as long as I can remember, art has been central to who I am as a person.
I have been drawing, dancing, and playing music since I was a child. I grew up in a conservative Christian household that often felt very controlling. As a result I grew up with a lot of shame, especially as a closeted queer person. When I was 13, I was watching America’s next top model, and Dita von Teese was a featured guest. I did not know what burlesque was, but seeing an adult embody sensuality and sexuality in such a confident, poised, and empowering way made me feel so inspired. Most of all it showed me the once I became an adult that I would be allowed to have agency of myself in that way.
When I got to college, I felt free enough to leave my conservative christian ideals behind. I began tapping in to my queer identity and started to do drag performance art through the rainbow alliance at my school. I found this art form to be very liberating and knew that I wanted performance art to be a major part of my life.
I began to branch out into my local art community and began performing in Rocky Horror Picture Show shadow casts, and performing drag and burlesque numbers at film festivals and local venues. Common themes in my performance numbers include gender bending, satanic or religious imagery, sci-fi, 80’s music, and goth aesthetics. I also taught pole dance, erotic and acrobatic chair, and cardio dance classes. My intention as an instructor is to promote radical body acceptance, self love, and positivity through movement and a kickass playlist!
Covid has definitely changed the way I put my art out into the world. This year I have resumed my crochet hobby, dove further into playing my theremin, and started a podcast where I interview artists, activists, and educators in the community. While nothing beats a stage and a live audience, I am grateful have performed burlesque art and dance classes through online platforms. My goal and intention is to inspire people to be their authentic selves and to channel that through art, embodied movement, and sensuality.
You can find my work as well as contact links on my instagram at @dabby.longlegs. Let’s chat!
