Closing Show: "The Leathermen Project" by Mike Ruiz

Don't miss the closing show of photographer Mike Ruiz's collection, "The Leathermen Project" on Tue, Dec 20 from 6-9pm. Known for his work with celebrities from RuPaul to Beyoncé, Mike's work is "a time capsule that will keep the leather community’s rich history alive for future generations." This event is open to all!

Please note: photographer Mike Ruiz attended the premiere in September, but will not be present for this closing reception. Artwork purchased during the show will be available for pickup (by appointment) starting January 2.

TO ATTEND

This limited-capacity indoor-outdoor event is open to all with a reserved ticket. We cannot guarantee ticket availability at the door, so please reserve in advance.

TICKETS

"pay what you want" donation with 100% of proceeds to benefit LYRIC

ABOUT THE COLLECTION

The Leathermen Project is an effort to demystify a community that Mike has always been incredibly drawn to, and he hopes that this effort will shine a light on the humanity of leathermen and become a time capsule that will keep the leather community’s rich history alive for future generations.

The collection will continue on display throughout the fall for viewing by Academy Members and guests, and by appointment only. A portion of the proceeds from each sale of artwork will be donated to LYRIC, a San Francisco-based nonprofit organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth.

ABOUT MIKE RUIZ

Mike’s long list of celebrity clients include Jared Leto, Anne Hathaway, Billy Porter, Neil Patrick Harris, Cardi B, Ruby Rose, Katy Perry, Prince, Kelly Clarkson, Jim Parsons, Regina Hall, Queen Latifah, Beyonce, Betty White, and the list goes on and on. He has also directed several music videos for artists such as Kelly Rowland, Vanessa Williams, Erika Jayne and RuPaul, and made his feature film directorial debut with the uproarious comedy “StarrBooty” starring RuPaul.

Mike has also appeared frequently on America’s and Canada’s Next Top Model, RuPaul’s Drag Race, along with dozens of other television appearances as an expert in his field. Mike was recently named creative director and principal photographer for L’Officiel Fashion Book Australia, L’Officiel Fashion Book Monte Carlo and PhotoBook Magazine.

Mike is most proud of his community service, having supported such organizations as The Ali Forney Center, GMHC, The Trevor Project, Housing Works, It Gets Better Campaign, Live Out Loud, Project Angel Food, and GLAAD. He is also on the honorary board of the "Let There Be Hope" research foundation.

More information about Mike Ruiz can be found at WWW.MIKERUIZ.COM

MEMBERSHIP

The Academy is currently accepting new memberships. If you are interested in becoming a Member and enjoying all of the associated perks and benefits, please click here to learn more.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and food items will be available for purchase. Our menus can be found here.

CLUB INFORMATION (FOR MEMBERS)

The Club will be open only for ticket-holding attendees of this special event.

SAFE SPACE

The Academy is a safe space for all—in particular members of our LGBTQ+ community. We encourage you to learn more about our safe space principles & policies by clicking here.

COVID-19 SAFETY

This event will take place in accordance with all currently applicable health guidelines per the City of San Francisco and SFDPH. Our full safety information can be found here. Please contact us if you have any questions.