A SANXTUARY OF SOUND AND SELF

DJ and photographer Ap3x Anomaly on visibility, legacy, and creating space beyond identity.

Interviewed by: Lucy Dover (@lucy_dover_)

Ap3x Anomaly has always existed beyond easy categorization. A DJ, photographer, cultural archivist, and relentless creative, his work transcends rigid labels that seek to define Blackness, gender, and artistic expression. "I’ve always been an anomaly," he says confidently. "I'm already someone who exists so far out of the binary that it’s not of value to me to draw light to its existence. Categorization doesn’t serve."

When nobody’s watching, Ap3x is remarkably consistent: always immersed in music, nurturing both physical and spiritual well-being, continually evolving and exploring creative dimensions. "I describe myself as for the people, for culture: particularly Black UK culture always; dance music always; love always. [I’m] Deep and spiritual even when it’s not meant to be," he explains thoughtfully.

Their sense of self emerged from a uniquely Black British landscape, visually inspired by London's vibrant street style and culturally nourished by the boundless expanses of the internet. YouTube, in particular, became an informal yet crucial archive serving as a portal into documentaries and music videos that provided context to the cultural tapestry he intuitively felt connected to. "[I was] Raised by Black London street style," They reflect. "YouTube specifically shaped my sense of self. [My] Internal foundations. You know what you like and later find documentaries to visualise that identity, see the context of it. YouTube is my encyclopaedia without realising it."

Despite the depth and breadth of his artistic expression, visibility has always been a complex issue for Ap3x. The journey toward feeling truly seen has been challenging. "I struggle with the concept of being seen," he admits candidly. "The only place I truly feel seen is within ballroom. As someone Black and trans, it takes a lot for me to feel seen."

For Ap3x, art is inherently political, intimately personal, and undeniably transformative. They create explicitly for those who exist on the margins: "the kids who never fit in anywhere but still rock their shit," he says warmly. These are individuals who steadfastly maintain their uniqueness despite a lack of external support or kindness. Ap3x understands this struggle intimately: "The spaces I was in didn’t necessarily nurture or validate that, but the trust I had in myself…that creates the version I am now."

Their creative process involves constant introspection and unlearning. Ap3x is currently dismantling an internal critic who previously burdened him with notions of perfection and completion. "I'm unlearning the internal critic that shames you for not completing all your projects," he reflects. "I am multifaceted, multi-hyphenate creative… we are mastering something we don’t necessarily know exists yet." This act of unlearning extends beyond creativity to a broader embrace of relentless, unconditional love. "I'm finally allowing myself to believe in love in all forms," he shares. "Continually pushing forward to get what you want without having to push others out of the way. You can create fab things without discrediting anyone."

Ap3X Anomaly's photography

Legacy, to Ap3x, isn't merely an abstract idea but an active, lived reality. He considers their existence inherently radical: a day-to-day inspiration shaping his community and creative ecosystem. "Your legacy is your presence," he says assertively. "I’m already an inspiration and having an impact before I even think to."

He places significant emphasis on celebrating and honouring Black British culture, carefully acknowledging the path paved by previous generations and communities: like Recess, Misery, PDA, Nadine Artois, and Pxssy Palace, who've significantly influenced the cultural landscape. "Each generation pushes the culture forward," Ap3x emphasises. "We were made to believe electronic music was white-adjacent, but now we're reflecting on how much we truly connect with it."

Joy, in Ap3x's lens, manifests quietly yet profoundly. It’s not about grand gestures but moments of simple safety and profound gratitude. "Joy looks like getting a Lime bike home after the club at 3 am…getting home safe, a roof over my head, a comfy mattress," he explains. It’s a gentle reminder of the power found in everyday moments of peace.

When asked to envision his perfect Sanxtuary, Ap3x conjures a vivid sonic landscape: "It would sound like early 2000s electronica: trip-hop, Portishead, Wagon Christ, Brian Culbertson… fuzzy, warm textures," he describes evocatively. Visually, he invites imagination: "What do you see when you close your eyes? Sometimes colours, sometimes thoughts, sometimes nothing."

Ultimately, Ap3x’s message is direct, poignant, and deeply human: "Be fucking nice to people. Stop being weird, it’s not hard."