LGBT+ history month goes online in revealing works
National Museums Liverpool this month reveals the untold histories and lived experiences as never before of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people as part of LGBT+ History Month.
This year’s theme is Body, Mind, Spirit with NML curating a special collection of exciting commissions online that document history, lives and experiences of the community.
These exclusive works include insightful interviews and opinion pieces inspired by NML’s rich collections and commitment to sharing the experiences of Liverpool’s long and diverse LGBT+ history.
In addition to the online programme, there is a House of Suarez Vogue Ball dress on display in Museum of Liverpool’s window.
This epic sweeping gown and headpiece were specially commissioned for Liverpool River Festival in 2019 and the design was inspired by Liverpool’s seafaring history.
The dress then went on to strut its stuff in the House of Suarez Vogue Ball, where the fiercest voguers and performers battled it out in an underwater themed spectacular.
The online programme is still growing but highlights already confirmed include ...
Commissioned works, including new poetry from local writer Felix MuftiWright.
Insightful interviews with leading figures in Liverpool’s LGBT+ community including Detective Sergeant Christian Owens of Merseyside Police and Caroline Paige, the first openly Transgender Officer within the British Armed Forces.
A digital display of artistic responses from members of the public who were invited to submit works representing LGBT+ people, places and events that mean something to them.
Exploration of ‘Hidden Histories’ including Polari, a coded language historically spoken by gay men.
Focus on figures such as gay codebreaker Alan Turing and his contribution to Artificial Intelligence.
A back-to-basics guide with a mini-LGBT+ Dictionary, timeline of LGBT+ history and round-up of famous activists and scientists to follow.
An exploration of LGBT+ Art History across National Museums Liverpool’s venues, including classics such as Simeon Solomon’s ‘Mystery of Faith’ from the Lady Lever Art Gallery’s collection and the work of Rosa Bonheur at Sudley House.
National Museums Liverpool has a long history of bringing together Liverpool’s multi-faceted past.
Kay Jones, lead curator of community history, said: “Although we’re unable to come together physically for LGBT+ History Month, we want to unite people through this online festival which celebrates the stories and experiences of LGBT+ people, past and present.
“We are still adding to the online programme and are hoping to add more in-venue elements once we can reopen.
“The House of Suarez dress in the window of the Museum of Liverpool will offer a fierce and fascinating physical presence during February.
“Visitors will be able to see it up close and personal when we open our doors again.”
Matt Exley, Learning and Participation Manager and Co-Chair of NML’s LGBT+ Staff Network said: “A journey through Liverpool’s LGBT+ history from gay life at sea and in port to the modern gay quarter round Stanley Street is both rewarding and fascinating.”
LGBT+ History month, organised by LGBT+ Education Charity Schools OUT
UK, takes place every February and aims to educate and promote equality.