The Unabridged Mrs. Vera' Daybook

Wielding a hot glue gun and utilizing an assortment of everyday objects, artist David Faulk constructed a whimsical, colorful outfit and even more outrageous accessories – and presto! – his larger-than-life drag alter ego Mrs. Vera was born. Michael Johnstone, Faulk’s creative and life partner (aka Mr. Tina), photographed the eye-popping results. In that moment, over 25 years ago, the duo was facing an uncertain future given their serious health challenges during the height of the AIDS crisis. Creating Mrs. Vera and Mr. Tina gave both a sense of joyful purpose and direction. From that first collaboration, an entire movement of dime-store fashionistas (dressed from the warehouse full of the duo’s fantastic costumes and accessories) emerged. Supporters, fellow activists and members of San Francisco’s queer art community help illustrate director Robert James’ exuberant and heartfelt portrait of two men whose infectious creative spirit has been a lesson in the art of survival.