From Allison Meier’s story for Hyperallergic:
[Eli] Coleman notes that in the past most Burmese spirit mediums were women. Over the past 50 years, as women gained more opportunities in their careers and education, more male-born mediums became part of this practice. And in these positions, they find not only acceptance of homosexuality and femininity, but economic and spiritual power. Allen’s photographs include portraits of mediums, scenes from the festivals where worship involves a visual cacophony of dancing, food, music, and color, and intimate shots of the mediums’ home altars. These are laden with candles, incense, and offerings which are intended to reinforce their connection to the spirits. Over her repeated visits, the New York-based photographer got rare access to these safe spaces for gender nonconforming individuals that have formed in a religious context.