Glasgow's hidden gay leather scene is about to be laid bare, and it's been decades in the making. John Wood's remarkable photographs – intimate, often erotic, and always unflinching – are finally being shared with the public, giving us a unique glimpse into a bygone era. At 79, this former telecoms engineer has unleashed his first solo exhibition at the Celine gallery, showcasing a collection that captures the city's underground leather scene between 1982 and 2002 in all its gritty beauty.
Wood's journey into photography was an amateur affair, born of teenage curiosity and self-taught skills honed from pouring over magazines. The exhibited portraits span two decades, from 'Cal', a Polaroid snapshot taken in 1982, to 'June 2002', a gelatin silver print that freezes a moment in time. What's striking is how collaborative these photographs are – Wood credits his subjects for their posing and expression, often noting that the restrictive nature of their leather attire dictated their movements, allowing him to focus on lighting and atmosphere.
The visual parallels between Wood's work and Robert Mapplethorpe's are undeniable, particularly in their ability to capture the masculine display inherent in the gay leather subculture. Wood observed how his subjects exuded confidence in their leather garb – a confidence born of this unique space where men could express themselves freely, especially during a period when male homosexuality was still heavily stigmatised and AIDS was on the rise.
But here's the thing: unlike Mapplethorpe, Wood wasn't part of the scene himself. He admits it with a wry smile – "It's funny because I'm not into leather at all. It's just not my scene." His introduction to this world came through a former partner, whose connections opened doors for him in Glasgow's leather community. Despite the nudity and fetish wear depicted, Wood insists that his portraits are not pornographic, pointing out that there was never any sexual activity during shoots – instead, he captures deep intimacy and playfulness.
This exhibition is a cultural moment of significance, providing a unique historical document of Scotland's LGBTQ+ history. The images may be undeniably erotic, but they also convey vulnerability and authenticity – a rare glimpse into the lives and self-expression of men navigating their identities in a rapidly changing social landscape. Wood's archives are long overdue for public display, and Glasgow is about to get its eyes on something truly remarkable.