David Cuka is an Albanian Artist and LGBTQ+ activist. Renowned for his 999 Portraits project series, his work addresses themes of identity, human rights, and marginalized communities. David made history as the first transgender man in Albania to come out publicly, which he did in March 2021, a pivotal moment that brought greater visibility to the country's LGBTQ+ community.

Early Life and Education

David Cuka was born and raised in Albania. He started his career in photography and photojournalism in October 2016. He is currently a first-year student at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna, studying under Professor Marina Gržinić. His academic and artistic work explores new artistic and political perspectives while creating projects that transcend national boundaries.

Career and Major Works

David is widely recognized for his 999 Portraits series, an ambitious and ongoing project capturing diverse stories across various communities. Key projects include:

999 Albanian Portraits: A series that documents cultural identities across Albania, reflecting the changing dynamics of society.

999 Stray Animals: Focused on the lives of stray animals in Albania, this project raises awareness about animal welfare and human-animal relationships.

Advocacy and Public Coming-Out

In March 2021, David became Albania’s first transgender man to come out publicly, an act of courage that has had a lasting impact on LGBTQ+ visibility in the country. As an activist, he advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and uses his photography to challenge societal norms and amplify marginalized voices.

Recognition and Exhibitions

David’s photography has been featured in numerous exhibitions, both in Albania and internationally. His work has received praise for its emotional depth and social relevance. Despite financial challenges, David has self-funded his projects, showing a deep commitment to his mission of using art for social change.

Legacy and Future Aspirations

David’s 999 Portraits series is a bridge between art, journalism, and activism. His ongoing projects seek to expand globally, fostering empathy, challenging stereotypes, and uniting communities through powerful visual storytelling.

References

TedX Speaker for coming out and for the project 999 Portraits: ^[1]

Feature on David’s public coming-out and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, Top Channel:^[2]

David's *999 Portraits* series was showcased in Tirana’s Skanderbeg Square, symbolizing unity and diversity.^[3].

.Additional interviews and articles on his photography and activism, EJAlbum^[4].