– Exhibition: Making a rukus! Black Queer Histories through Love and Resistance – Location: Somerset House – Dates: 11 October 2024 – 19 January 2025 – Curator: Topher Campbell – Archive: Over 2,300 pieces from 1970s to present – Focus: Celebrate and validate Black LGBTQIA+ history and culture.
The upcoming exhibition ‘Making a rukus! Black Queer Histories through Love and Resistance’ will take place at Somerset House from 11 October 2024 to 19 January 2025. Curated by Topher Campbell, co-founder of the rukus! Federation, the exhibit showcases over 2,300 pieces documenting Black LGBTQIA+ cultural and political history from the 1970s to today. The project aims to celebrate creativity and preserve the memories of Black queer life across various UK cities, reflecting on a vibrant culture that was often hidden due to racism, homophobia, and societal neglect. Campbell highlights the significance of the archive: “It’s about creating a playful, joyful, celebratory space for Black LGBTQI+ creativity and community.” He notes that the history captured in the exhibition serves to validate and acknowledge a culture that has often been overlooked. The exhibition includes powerful imagery and stories, such as the first Black gay men’s conference in Europe and personal narratives from key figures in the Black LGBTQIA+ community.
The exhibition addresses the historical context of Black queer life in the UK, which has been largely unrecognised in mainstream narratives. Social media’s absence in the past meant that many experiences were undocumented and forgotten. Historical challenges, including racism within the LGBTQIA+ community and bigotry in broader society, contributed to the marginalisation of Black queer voices. The rukus! archive seeks to rectify this by providing a platform for these stories and images.
In summary, ‘**Making a rukus! Black Queer Histories through Love and Resistance**’ is a vital exhibition that aims to reclaim and celebrate the rich tapestry of Black queer history. Through curated pieces and personal accounts, it presents a compelling narrative of love, resistance, and community that is essential to understanding cultural identities within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
Original Source: www.attitude.co.uk