Spotlight: The X Wife
THIS is DRAG - SPOTLIGHT 016 / JANUARY 2025
The X Wife
Curated by Kevin Blondin
Drag is an art form that transcends borders, and few performers embody this truth as fully as The X Wife. With roots spanning Indonesia, Oman, and Clearwater, Florida, this London-based queen infuses her performances with global perspectives and deeply personal narratives. Inspired by icons like Raja Gemini and characterized by timeless, feminine, and unapproachable aesthetics, The X Wife crafts a bold, unapologetic vision of drag that captivates and inspires.
In this month’s Spotlight feature, we delve into the world of The X Wife—her journey, her art, and her aspirations. From gold-digging divas to powerful single moms, her drag is a celebration of femininity’s complexity, power, and beauty.
The X Wife: Redefining Femininity and Power Through Drag
The Name and Identity
The X Wife is a name rich with meaning and intent. Inspired by her Indonesian heritage and the trope of the “gold-digging Asian wife,” she marries this stereotype with her admiration for powerful women. “It’s a tongue-in-cheek nod to the strength and independence of femininity,” she explains.
The Aesthetic and Motifs
Timelessness and empowerment define The X Wife’s aesthetic. Whether embodying a lavish diva or a hardworking single mom, her performances are relatable yet commanding. “I want my audience to immediately connect with whatever comes to mind when they think of an ‘X Wife,’” she shares.
Her artistry extends beyond performance. A former fashion photographer, The X Wife utilizes skills like makeup, styling, and creative direction to create cohesive, visually stunning drag. “Now I get to authentically portray what’s important to me as an artist,” she says.
Inspirations and Representation
For The X Wife, representation is both personal and profound. As Canada’s biggest working Indonesian drag diva, she draws inspiration from Raja Gemini, the first Indonesian to break into mainstream queer culture. “Seeing Raja win Drag Race when I was 10 and later rediscovering her as a queer teen was life-changing,” she reflects.
Her favorite drag memory underscores this impact. Hosting a Drag Race viewing party, she was overwhelmed by the support and recognition of Asian excellence on screen. “The cheers from the crowd that night fueled my inspiration to push myself even further,” she recalls.
“Drag is my love language. From makeup to performance, everything I do is about authentically portraying what matters to me as an artist.”
Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve, and Talent
The X Wife embodies the essential traits of a drag superstar:
Charisma: A unique perspective and contagious energy define her presence.
Uniqueness: “Who else can embody The X Wife the way I do?” she quips.
Nerve: As the sole Indonesian drag performer in Canada, her visibility and perseverance are acts of boldness.
Talent: “My performance style is my love language,” she says, a sentiment echoed by her devoted audience.
The Message and the Future
Through her drag, The X Wife challenges perceptions of femininity. “Femininity is powerful, vulnerable, and beautiful,” she says. “I want my audience to leave rethinking what makes a feminine person strong.”
Looking ahead, she aims to refine her character and artistry, making her themes more cohesive. “The next five years are about growth—visually, aesthetically, and in performance,” she shares.
The X Wife is more than a performer; she’s a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a beacon of representation. Her drag transcends aesthetics, delving into the complexities of femininity and identity. As she pushes boundaries and builds her legacy, one thing is clear: The X Wife is here to stay.
Keep an eye on this queen—she’s just getting started!