Ball culture new york 1980s

The 1980s ball culture in New York City was a vibrant and influential scene that emerged in the late 1970s and flourished throughout the decade. The culture was centered around the annual "Vogue Fashion Show" and "Ball" events, which were organized by the House of Xtravaganza, a prominent ball house.

The House of Xtravaganza was founded by Hector Xtravaganza, a Puerto Rican drag queen who was one of the most influential figures in the ball culture scene. The house was known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and hairstyles, which were often inspired by high fashion and Hollywood glamour.

The balls were a way for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly people of color, to express themselves and showcase their creativity and talent. The events were often held in underground clubs and warehouses, and were attended by hundreds of people.

The balls were judged on various categories, including fashion, dance, and performance. The winners of each category would receive prizes, which were often sponsored by local businesses and organizations.

The ball culture in the 1980s was also marked by a sense of community and camaraderie. The events were a way for people to come together and celebrate their identities and express themselves freely.

The ball culture in the 1980s was also influenced by the rise of the AIDS epidemic, which had a devastating impact on the LGBTQ+ community. The balls became a way for people to come together and support each other during a difficult time.

The ball culture in the 1980s was also documented in the 1990 film "Paris is Burning," which was directed by Jennie Livingston. The film is a documentary that explores the ball culture and its significance in the lives of the people who participated in it.

Some of the most famous ball culture icons of the 1980s include:

The ball culture in the 1980s was a significant part of the LGBTQ+ community in New York City, and it continues to influence fashion, art, and popular culture to this day.