DAY-6- “MAUVAISES VIES?”: Debate on Fatphobia in the Queer Community with Marc Martin and Les Ours de Bruxelles

On May 12 at 7 PM, LaVallée in Brussels will host a free public debate titled “MAUVAISES VIES?,” bringing together acclaimed photographer Marc Martin and the association Les Ours de Bruxelles for an open discussion on fatphobia within the queer community. This event, held in conjunction with Martin’s exhibition “Mauvaises Vies?”-which features portraits of the Paris Bears-aims to confront and challenge prejudices around body size and beauty standards in LGBTQIA+ spaces.

Exploring Fatphobia and Queer Masculinity

The debate will focus on the issue of fatphobia, a form of discrimination that targets individuals based on body size, and how it manifests within queer environments. Les Ours de Bruxelles, a group that celebrates gay men who defy conventional standards of masculine beauty-embracing larger bodies, body hair, and beards-will share their experiences and perspectives. Their mission is to foster pride among those who might otherwise feel excluded from mainstream gay culture, which often prioritizes slim, muscular physiques.

About Marc Martin and His Work

Marc Martin is a French photographer and video artist known for his exploration of bodies, sexuality, and queer identities5. His recent project “Mauvaises Vies?” documents the Paris Bear community, highlighting the diversity of bodies and challenging the stigmatization of those who do not fit traditional ideals. The exhibition, running at LaVallée from May 9 to 23, offers a visual celebration of difference and resilience.

Event Details

• Date & Time: May 12, 2025, from 7 PM
• Location: LaVallée, Brussels
• Languages: The debate will be conducted in both French and Dutch13.
• Admission: Free
• Exhibition: “Mauvaises Vies?” by Marc Martin, May 9–23, 2025, 1 PM–8 PM

About Les Ours de Bruxelles

Les Ours de Bruxelles (Belgium Bears) is a social group for gay, bisexual, and trans men-and their admirers-of all ages, shapes, and backgrounds who identify with the “bear” community. The bear movement emerged as a response to exclusion within gay culture, providing a space for those whose bodies and masculinities fall outside narrow norms. The group organizes regular events and advocates for greater inclusion and body positivity.

A Platform for Dialogue and Change

This debate offers a rare opportunity to address the challenges of fatphobia in queer spaces and to celebrate the diversity that makes the community stronger. By bringing together art, lived experience, and activism, “MAUVAISES VIES?” invites participants to rethink what pride and beauty can mean in the LGBTQIA+ world.