Masculinity & Fitness Culture

This body of work explores masculinity through sport, physical fitness and the history of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). Founded in London in 1844, the YMCA offered young men a refuge from the dangers of life on the streets. By the end of the nineteenth century, associations had been set up across Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas. The charity was one of the largest voluntary organisations involved in the First and Second World Wars and coordinated international refugee work, including helping refugees resettle after the Vietnam War.

The YMCA also played a central role in advancing the importance of exercise. The charity founded the East Asian Games and played a major role in the growth of the Olympics. As well as inventing basketball, volleyball and establishing the first indoor public gyms, they also developed the precursors to modern exercise classes. As ideas about masculinity are increasingly being questioned, these paintings propose an alternative model: one rooted not in individualism, but in community, responsibility, and the use of strength in service of others.

This links to my previous body of work on the Chinese Labour Corps, where the YMCA played a key role in teaching English, organising sports, and hosting performances in camps across Europe.