Decolonizing Sexuality is a series seeking to foster conversation on the endemic of sexual racism that Black people face within the LGBTQ+ community, whilst also highlighting and celebrating Black queer voices, creativity, and sexuality. It is time to reclaim Black queer sexuality from a dominant white gaze in erotica that is then reflected in the everyday sex lives of Black queer people. Today we speak with Kevin Mansfield.
RISK MAGAZINE:
Do you see your body as art? Have you always seen it that way? What work did it take to see that?
KEVIN MANSFIELD:
I’ve always explored nudity in a different way than most. The physical anatomy of humans always fascinated me in a non-sexual way, a more so curiosity as to why and how. Each structure beautifully composed to be what you see and in an erotic sense, feel. I believe it truly all began when I had my spiritual awakening almost a decade ago, and started viewing every aspect of life as art. Unlearning everything society has deemed “right” or “wrong” and exploring more of what I see as exhilarating.
"I experience fetishization every single day, especially via social media."
RISK MAGAZINE: Have you ever experienced fetishization that made you feel uncomfortable?
KEVIN MANSFIELD: I experience fetishization every single day, especially via social media. The in-person fetishization is where it gets weird though. I once went to a nude beach where an older white guy walked up to me and the first thing out of his mouth was about my “chocolate skin” and “big Black cock”. Something similar has happened on the set of a photo shoot that I eventually had to walk out of.
"Nothing is taboo in this day and age. Sex is everywhere, nudity is everywhere. This has greatly impacted the way we see and enjoy sex."
RISK MAGAZINE: How has technology impacted the way we see and enjoy sex?
KEVIN MANSFIELD: Everything is a click away. Access to all the ass, dick, tits and clits is literally a click away. On all platforms. Nothing is taboo in this day and age. Sex is everywhere, nudity is everywhere. This has greatly impacted the way we see and enjoy sex. It is easily tangible. Everyone is objectified now. Especially if you’re a sexual presence on social media.
RISK MAGAZINE: What does self love and self celebration look like for you?
KEVIN MANSFIELD: Simply just living and being. Enjoying every moment and aspect of my complex self. The ups and downs. Sticking it out, staying true and exploring every damn thing that spikes my interest, as long as I am not harming anyone.
RISK MAGAZINE: What are your fantasies as it relates to your own sexual liberation?
KEVIN MANSFIELD: I want to find myself on some secluded island with a partner (or partners) where we can explore each other the entire trip on some exhibitionist shit.
In a Risk Magazine series "Decolonizing Sexuality", Kevin Mansfield stars in 'Making of Men' photographed by Clinton-Luis.
Photographer Clinton-Luis
Model Kevin Mansfield
Producer and Editor Jack Goldsmith
Interview LaQuann Dawson