Visitors will be able to explore the stories of trans+ trailblazers of the past from 17-30 June at Outernet London
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGES BY TRANS+ HISTORY WEEK
While Trans+ History Week may have come to an end, the legacy of the inaugural initiative is still living on through a new immersive experience by QueerAF at Outernet London. Continuing their “Always Been Here” campaign, visitors will be taken on a journey through time and space to explore the history of the trans+ community.
Visitors will be able to enjoy this space from 17-30 June, learning more about the stories of Gallae priestesses, American activists like Marsha P. Johnson and more. The installation will be accompanied by the choral sounds of the UK’s first professional trans+ choir, Trans Voices.
Marty Davies, the founder of Trans+ History Week, told DIVA: “Our Trans+ youth need us right now. I’ve had a recurring thought as we’ve developed the work. The thought of a young trans teenager finding their way into the space, and becoming enveloped in the art, the stories and the sounds while on a day trip to London. The piece speaks to them with an affirmation – you belong. And with that, they feel more reassured and more sure of their future.”
Trans+ History Week was created to reject the idea that trans+ people are a “trend” or a “new phenomenon”. Showcasing the rich history of the community with installations like the one showcasing at Outernet can help many to feel connected to the generations of trans+ people before them.
The stories that will be featured at Outernet London in Pride Month were written by trans+ writers Gray Burke-Stowe, Leigh Flint and Sophie Edwards. The accompanying art was created by Sunday Avanti, Jua O’Kane, and Finn Yvo.
Jamie Wareham, the founder of QueerAF, said: “The UK media industry only thrives when it’s bursting with queer talent – so Outernet helping to give more visibility to that talent with this incredible interactive space is so valuable for them, and their portfolios. Only a media industry that represents, hires and understands us can help shift the narrative on being queer in the UK. Our commissioning schemes help to launch the careers of emerging and underrepresented LGBTQIA creatives and we couldn’t be more proud of Sunday Avanti, Jua O’Kane and Finn Yvo who have all had their work selected to feature in this piece.”
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