"Carry Me Home" is the debut photo book by Wellington-born artist Tommie Love. It is a personal story that unfolds as a series of chapters, each delving into different facets of Tommie’s journey, navigating his multi-layered experiences and identity as a young queer person from a New Zealand-African perspective. The story follows Tommie’s Tigray heritage and parents' immigration to New Zealand, to finding his voice and celebrating the individuals and community who support him.

This project holds a unique place in New Zealand's history as the first book to explore the an African queer experience in Aotearoa. Tommie utelises his story as a vehicle to delve into a personal account, sharing both the beauty and the difficulties encountered along the way.

"Carry Me Home" captures not only my narrative but also serves as a broader exploration of the complexities within the African queer community in New Zealand. It's more than a book; it's a celebration of resilience and a recognition of the diverse tapestry that shapes our identities.

Title: Carry Me Home
Year: 2023
Photographer: Tommie Love
Design and publisher: Ted Whitaker/
Black Wax Press
Dimensions: 180mm x 240mm
Pages: 64
Edition of 200