entertainment

This calendar fits to a T

Looking for something different to put on your wall for 2011? T-Bodies Productions, run by Shayne Forster and Jack Fox in Vancouver, put together a calendar for 2011. T-Bodies has been bringing awareness of FTM issues to B.C.'s local communities. Here's what the guys have to say about the calendar.

Q. How did the calendar get started?

A. In September 2007 we were discussing ways to bring awareness to the trans community. We thought the calendar would be a fun project that would bring people together while educating and promoting awareness. We felt there was a lack of awareness in regards to FTM transsexuals. By creating a visually appealing project we could capture the interest of people and promote education.

Q. You have a focus on education of FTM issues. Do you do any workshops?

A. In the past, we spoke on a panel at Capilano University as well as the queer youth drop in, in Abbotsford. We intend to run a workshop during OUT week at UBCO.

Q. Where else have you been to promote the calendar and provide education?

A. We have been a part of Vancouver, Victoria and Okanagan Pride. We have vended at Gender Odyssey in Seattle, and have held events at venues in Vancouver. We hope to branch out to store fronts across Canada, the US and internationally.

Q. Where do the proceeds from sales go?

A. We donate partial proceeds to Vancouver Trans Youth Drop In. For the trans-men in our community we do mass chest binder orders to enable a lower-cost option. We also hold fundraisers for guys who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford surgery.

Q. How do you think this has affected the models that have been a part of this project?

A. The guys involved have felt a connection to the trans community, themselves and their history. It has educated the general public and the surrounding queer community. The calendar has been something that guys in the community have been excited to be part of. It has facilitated a positive place for each guy to have a little bit of their story told. We embrace all body types and stages of transition.

Q. You also have playing cards. What made you decide to create them?

A. The playing cards were created because they showcase all of the photography from both the 2009 and 2011 calendars. The playing cards are something that can be left out on the coffee table for people to browse and not only are they checking out some great photography, but are also having their attention brought to a community they might not know about.

Q. If you could envision T-Bodies five years from now what do you hope to see?

A. Engagement in projects not only in BC, but in trans communities across Canada and the US. We are interested in putting on events in other cities/provinces, as well. We hope to evolve and create more projects.

I also spoke to a couple of the guys who were a part of the calendar. Micael, who was in the 2009 calendar, shares what’s had the strongest impact on him. “People are shocked to learn that we were born female and often ask questions about transition. It makes for entertaining conversation at times and definitely opens up dialogue for teaching people about what it means to be a trans-man.” Base, Mr. October 2011, speaks about the meaningfulness of the calendar. “You shouldn’t be afraid to tell the world every once in a while where you came from and what you’ve been through.”

Folks can keep informed on events and also order calendars and playing cards from http://www.t-bodies.ca

– Ryan Jarmin is a Vancouver-based freelance writer. To comment on this or any other article in Outwords, write to letters@outwords.ca.