Rupaul's Drag Race: Season 5, Episode 1
Another season of the Drag Race is underway, and I'm already overwhelmed--so many queens! So much drama! So much to draw! But seriously, it is a really fascinating mix of queens. They kept saying how fishy they all are, but I'm more impressed at the diverse set of skills and styles we have here. I had done a bit of research into the queens prior to the season for my full-cast poster that you can see here, so I definitely already had some favorites.
First of all, I love the deranged, funny, self-aware queens: Alaska, Detox, and Jinkx.
Alaska's got her demented glam style down, with a sharp wit to match. My only concern had been whether she'd be able to show a softer side, which this episode delivered. There's been a lot of discussion about whether Alaska's relationship with past winner Sharon Needles will be either a hindrance or unfair advantage--I'm glad that this episode let the girls ask all those questions and get 'em out of the way. Alaska was candid and funny about the jealousy, frustration, and insecurity she feels about it all. And now, hopefully, she can move on in this competition unencumbered.
And I seriously can't wait to see her shine in some performance challenges.
Detox is a clear frontrunner--she's got incredible style, a distinctive look, and an ego the size of California. I'm hoping we're able to get to know her better throughout the season-- she has an ironic detachment and arrogance that reminds me a lot of her friend Willam. But regardless, I can't wait to see what else Detox brings to the show!
And then there's Jinkx: what a gem!
I have a huge soft spot for Jinkx, and I'm not afraid to shout that from the rooftops. I think she's funny as hell, embraces a delightfully quirky style, and is an amazing performer. I think she might be the greatest "funny queen" in the show's history, and I'm hoping this show helps launch her into superstardom. She's already been producing hilarious web videos for years (check out her Funny or Die series "Monsoon Season") and is currently starring in a Seattle production of Hedwig & The Angry Inch, which I would DIE to see. My only worry about Jinkx is that, although she's a fantastic actor, singer, and comedian, the Drag Race's emphasis on lip sync and fashion might be her downfall. (but I hope not!)
But, as in every season of the Drag Race, there are surprises. I didn't know much about Roxxxy beforehand, but with her juicy curves, enormous hair, and sleek fashion, I think she could go far. And if you watch Untucked, you'll see that Roxxxy can read these girls FOR DAYS.
I think Honey Mahogany is as sweet as her namesake, not to mention strikingly gorgeous and stylish. She's also one of several queens this season who's an accomplished singer. I'm hoping she's a standout this year, but I'm worried she might be too damn nice for this show!
I can't wait to draw the outrageous outfits that Ivy Winters will walk down the runway! She clearly has some design skills, and I'm hoping she gets more of a chance to show off her personality, too. (I had been hoping to draw her this week, but just didn't have time. But soon!)
My biggest surprise this week was Lineysha Sparx--although she's an obvious beauty, I hadn't expected her to bring such style and grace to the show. Seriously, that girl moves like a cat. And even though her runway look was stunning and should have won the challenge, I decided her first look would be even more fun to draw!
I'm definitely not planning to animate all my Drag Race art this year, but I wanted to have some fun this week. Let me know if you like 'em!
As always, prints of my Drag Race work from past seasons can be found here, as well as art books that collect the best pieces!
Check back next week for my thoughts and drawings of the second episode!