A direct gaze meets the camera against a softly folded curtain. Célibataire 001 presents a restored and colorized 1992 photobooth portrait of Jake Smith, founder and archivist of Walt & Pete®, as framed matte canvas wall art. Taken at Deadwood Bar in Iowa City, Iowa, this reproduction preserves a personal photograph as an artwork for contemporary homes and collections.
According to Smith’s account, he came out in 1985 and shared that truth with his family in 1987. This photograph belongs to the years that followed—a specific moment in the life of a gay man whose later work would center on preserving historical images. Its LGBTQ+ significance comes from that documented personal history.
The close vertical composition brings attention to Smith’s face, swept hair, and gaze. A dark coat frames a plaid shirt and light undershirt, while the curtain creates a quiet background. In the restored version, warm neutral tones surround the darker clothing, keeping the portrait’s face at the center of the image.
Part of the Walt & Pete® Célibataire Collection, this photograph joins a series centered on individual male subjects and their distinctive presence before the camera. For LGBTQ+ collectors, it offers a personal connection to visibility, memory, and belonging. Display it in a study, bedroom, living room, or portrait gallery wall. The collection name refers to one man pictured; it does not designate his relationship status.
Forgotten Moments, Forever Remembered.
Original Photograph Record
Photographer: Unknown (automated photobooth system)
Place of Production: Iowa City, Iowa, United States (Deadwood Bar; per provided information)
Medium: Gelatin silver photobooth print on resin-coated paper
Dimensions: Small-format photobooth print (approx. 2 x 6 in. strip segment or similar cropped section)
Why You’ll Love It
• A documented personal story: Depicts Walt & Pete® founder Jake Smith in 1992.
• LGBTQ+ connection: Accompanied by the sitter’s own coming-out history.
• Distinctive portrait detail: Direct gaze, swept hair, layered clothing, and curtain backdrop.
• Personal display possibilities: Suits a study, bedroom, or collected portrait wall.
• A connection to the brand: Links Walt & Pete®’s preservation mission to its founder’s own photographic record.
Product Features
- Museum-quality matte canvas
- Cotton and polyester canvas
- Archival inks
- Pine wood frame
- Frame colors: black, espresso, white
Multiple size options
- 8×10
- 11×14
- 16×20
