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Kerstin Cook

Aromanticism, having little or no romantic attraction, as a label is having more of an emergence within the queer community itself, as well as the distinction of romantic identities in general. Ten years ago, I made the mistake like many others of assuming that the 'A' in LGBTQIA stood for 'Ally.' After gaining a better understanding, I and most people generally recognized it as representing only 'Asexual.' It wasn't until I began feeling that my experiences with romance and sexual attraction didn't align with the norm of others that I began seeking out how to label my personal identity. I didn't like the idea of having a significant other, or feel the desire to date in general. Perhaps I was asexual? But I still felt attraction to men, so I'm heterosexual? Maybe I'm just a 'player' like television's only representation of people that dislike romantic partnerships. Luckily, I came across an identity and community that made me feel whole and unbroken. I'm aromantic.

 

I identify first as Aro and second as heterosexual. Both are important to me in defining who I am as a complete person. My romantic attraction is distinct from my sexual attraction, and that's okay. A lack of romantic attraction does not make me morally wrong, and neither does my sex positivity. I believe the emergence and understanding of romantic identities can help individuals like myself have a better insight into themselves and their relationships, and become prideful in their lived experiences. I happily identify as part of the aromantic community, and hope to share a greater understanding of our sometimes misrepresented label with the LGBTQ Resource Center of Gulfport Library, and for those that want to know what the 'A' fully encapsulates.

Kerstin Cook - Kerstin Cook.jpg

Kerstin Cook is a self-taught artist residing in the Tampa Bay area. Since her first "exhibition" in kindergarten, her passion for art has influenced her life in everything she pursues. Working in a wide variety of mediums, her art ranges from watercolor florals to commentaries on living under racial injustice and sexism in America. She enjoys experimenting with new techniques and inspirations as she continues to develop her skills and share her artwork with the community. Kerstin is happily employed as an Art Coordinator for Project Return, where she teaches art and promotes the works of talented artists living with mental illness. She received "Best in Show" for the Sarasota-Bradenton Airport 2012 Student Artwork Exhibition. Her long-term art goal is to have a solo exhibition by the age of 30.

Artist Bio

Legal Contents of a Sexually Active Woman's Purse - Kerstin Cook.jpg

(Il)legal Contents of a Sexually Active Woman's Purse

Kerstin Cook

2022, Mixed media, found objects, acrylic

16"x20" Online & In-Person

Not For Sale

Contact this artist directly to purchase their work.

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