Dr. Martens Taps Bernice Mulenga to Capture London's Pulsing Queer Scene
The photographer shot an archival series during the Body Movements Festival for the Museum of Youth Culture.
Last month, the Body Movements Festival came to life through the collaboration of DJ and visual artist Sippin T’, Queer collective Cousins and the support of Dr. Martens. The event celebrated the LGBTQIA+ community and global subcultures, with Sippin T’ curating a lineup on the festival’s takeover stage.
London-based photographer Bernice Mulenga partnered with the Museum of Youth Culture to capture the essence of the event. Their archival project immortalized the festival’s dynamic spirit and a strong sense of community, highlighting the convergence of art, music and empowerment. Festival-goers became part of this visual record, portraying the event and its vibrant atmosphere.
Sippin T’, originally from South London and later based in Jamaica, co-founded the influential QTIBPOC collective BBZ. The Sippin T’ x Body Movements stage delved into class, colonial legacies, ancestral traditions and gender, uniting diverse voices and cultures.
The music lineup included talents such as Brazilian baile funk icon BADSISTA, dancehall sensation Lil C, UK funky expert Fiyahdred and Aotearoa’s HALFQUEEN, alongside DJs Kampire and NTS residents Basmati & Zaleel.
As part of the All Access initiative, Dr. Martens collaborated with Queens Peckham from South London, providing complimentary appointments for nail art, hair styling and tooth gem application—fostering a sense of individuality and self-care.
Take a look at some of Mulenga’s portraits and festival shots in the gallery above.
In other photography news, Yuge Zhou continues her love letters series for Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Photography.
