Are you looking to enjoy something a bit creative this autumn?
BY CALYPSO LLOYD-DAVIES, IMAGE BY RYANMCGUIRE FROM PIXABAY/ CANVA
As we roll into autumn, the queer arts scene is prepped and ready to share the incredibly exciting events and exhibitions they have to offer. So, get your diaries out, because we’ve got all you need to know about what’s on this artsy September!
Fringe! Queer Film and Arts Festival
For all the lovers of queer cinema, Fringe! will be hosting its annual film and arts festival running from 13 – 21 September. Since 2011, Fringe! has been celebrating LGBTQIA+ stories on screen, so expect shorts and features from up-and-coming queer filmmakers. This East London-based festival aims to build community and provide space for the queer creative scene. Last year, the festival included queer markets and workshops, as well as a sexual health discussion group.So, keep an eye on their website for details of this year’s programme!
Meet The Artist: A Conversation with Claye Bowler and E-J Scott
To celebrate the London debut of Bowler’s exhibition Top (2022), a showcase of his journey to top surgery, Queer Britain is hosting an exclusive conversation with the artist. Bowler will be joined by E-J Scott, founder of the Museum of Transology, to explore trans stories in art and museums, as well as the process behind the exhibition itself. The talk will be at the W Hotel in Soho, on 17 September, set to start at 6:30 pm, and to run until 8:00 pm. If you’re on a tight budget, the event only requests that you pay what you can, with the lowest price being only £1. Get tickets while you still can!
Archive Tour: LGBTQIA+ Collections
The last chance to join the tour of Bishopsgate Institute’s LGBTQIA+ archives is on 25 September. If you’re interested in all things history, this might be the one for you. You’ll be shown around by Stefan Dickers, Special Collections and Archives Manager at Bishopsgate Institute, who has been in charge of managing the archival history of gay Britain at Bishopsgate for 20 years. The tour will run from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, but tickets do go fast, so if you’re too late, the organisers say to email to get on the waiting list.
Queeriosities: Art and Makers Fair
Down in South London, Queeriosities is hosting its exhibition and market at Copeland Gallery Peckham, from 26 – 28 September. Expect to explore the work of over 60 queer artists and makers, along with many small businesses showcased at the market. Founder of Queeriosities, Davy Pittoors, created the event to encourage queer connection amongst the community, and to give space to LGBTQIA+ artists, so often sidelined. Opening night is on 26 Friday, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, where you can enjoy exclusive previews and celebrations of the exhibition. Over the weekend, they offer free entry to the fair, so don’t miss out!
DIVA magazine celebrates 31 years in print in 2025. If you like what we do, then get behind LGBTQIA+ media and keepus going for another generation. Your support is invaluable.
