Stanley Stellar

Stanley Stellar is an influential photographer whose work has been a powerful visual record of gay life, particularly through the 1970s and 1980s. Stellar’s work celebrates the beauty and individuality of the male form, capturing moments of intimacy, strength, and vulnerability. Through his lens, Stellar has immortalized queer identities, emphasizing not only the erotic and playful but also the resilience and dignity of his subjects. His images convey an almost sacred presence, portraying men in their full, unapologetic selves — a mission closely aligned with the spirit of the HaPenis Project. Stellar’s photography contributes to a richer understanding of masculinity, queer history, and body acceptance, inspiring viewers to see the beauty in authentic self-expression. We wanted to feature Cop Roger who was photographed by Stanley in 1990.