“Quiladelphia” by Quil Lemons

A decade in the making, Quiladelphia is the first IDEA book by photographer Quil Lemons. A photographic exploration of Black masculinity, the book brings together ten years of work examining identity, vulnerability, intimacy and the fluidity of gender and self-expression.

A dedication to Lemons and his hometown of Philadelphia, the title reflects the city, family and community that have shaped his perspective. Featuring a foreword by Brontez Purnell, an essay by Lemons and a conversation with Lyle Ashton Harris, alongside a dialogue with fellow Philadelphia native Santigold; Quiladelphia explores the many dimensions of Blackness, queerness, love, art and society.

Moving between colour and black and white, the images challenge singular definitions of masculinity, finding beauty in vulnerability, transformation and the spaces between performance and authenticity. A portrait of a decade of work, Quiladelphia celebrates the multiplicity of Black masculinity.

The book will be launch at Dover Street Market on Thursday 15th October as part of Frieze 2026.