For many in our community isolation is a dangerous place, both physically and emotionally, with an increased risk of suicide, depression and abusive households. Artist Maxwell Fine has announced he will be donating a percentage of profits from the sale of his bold typographical prints and sculptures to UK’s LGBT+ helpline Switchboard.
“Almost every single call we are taking now features increased anxiety and isolation because of Covid-19. It’s magnifying existing situations people may be in already such as domestic violence, transphobia, biphobia and homophobia, and of course loneliness,” said Natasha Walker, Co-Chair of Switchboard. “It’s so important that we can get the message out to everyone that we exist, that we are still open and that you can still reach us.”
A graduate of London’s Central Saint Martins School of Art, Maxwell Fine has made a name for himself working with the likes of Lady Gaga, Eminem and Ed Sheeran, and established the Maxwell Fine Studio to create work specifically raising awareness for LGBTQ+ issues in a positive, bold fashion.
Fine himself has turned to Switchboard in difficult times and knows its importance to the community in times of hardship. “After watching my partner’s mental health decline after he battled with coming out I thought something had to be done for the wider community,” Fine told The Queer Review. “Switchboard offer direct information and support for anyone working through mental health and it’s of vital importance we all play our part to support each other.”
“Giving back to a community that has nourished my character is really important to me as a person,” Fine continues. “Giving is part of my brand ethos and it’s empowering to me that not only can I inspire others spiritually through the art itself but I can also contribute financially to Switchboard to ensure that action takes place to help others on their journey. No one should suffer in their own headspace and after witnessing my partner fall apart just because he was LGBT, I hope that others will be inspired by my story, draw strength from the creative journey I’ve been on and in turn take steps to positively impact their mental health.”
To purchase some uplifting prints and help support Switchboard check out Maxwell Fine’s website.
If you’re based in the UK and are in need to confidential support (no matter what it is, from coming out to going out, sexual health to mental health and anything in between), contact Switchboard on 0300 330 0630 (10am-10pm) or go to the Switchboard website.
You can follow Maxwell Fine on social at @maxwellfine.studio
By Chad Armstrong
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