An exhibition showcasing queer joy is set to take over the Royal Albert Dock this weekend.
Music fans from all over the world and Liverpudlians will be privy to a preview of a new show which has been created in collaboration with Skittles, Gay Times, Getty and Queer Britain.
Popping up in the city’s Albert Dock from Thursday, May 11 to Saturday, May 13, the free exhibition will explore the concept of “queer joy” - defined as the deep happiness that brings warmth and purpose to queer lives.
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Striking portraits of queer people, captured by a variety of emerging international photographers, will be on display. Through these images, the pop-up presentation aims to shine a light on the unfiltered, queer self-expression that is vital to the LGBTQ+ community.
Guests will be invited to capture their own images within the space, pick up a packet of Skittles sweets and will also have the chance to have a portrait captured by a local queer photographer.
Josh Fletcher, executive creative director at GTX, GayTimes Group, said: “In a world where anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric is gaining more prominence across the media landscape, representation of Queer Joy is more important than ever.
“Our exhibition provides much-needed positivity, celebrating and bringing hope to the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike. Too often, the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals relies on outdated stereotypes, failing to capture true diversity. By collaborating with the next generation of talented photographers, we aim to disrupt this cycle and create lasting change.
"As Eurovision draws a massive LGBTQ+ audience, it's the perfect opportunity to spread joy and celebrate our campaign ahead of such a big moment in the city.”
The preview in Liverpool signals the start of a yearlong mission for the four companies - who are helping millions of people to “see the rainbow” by working to improve LGBTQ+ representation in photography.
This year, the group will be capturing all identities in 1000+ images, to help tackle stereotypes in media and better represent the vibrant and dynamic LGBTQ+ community within the UK.
Ryan Pardo-Roques, Skittles' senior brand manager, added: “Liverpool has an impressive history when it comes to LGBTQ+ movements and we’re thrilled to reveal a glimpse of our exhibition in the city. This month, we will see a Europe-wide moment of cultural unity in Liverpool and we’re hoping that the exhibition will help further spark the feeling of queer joy, vibrant expression, and togetherness.
“The exhibition marks a three-year journey with our brilliant partners to help create the LGBTQ+ archives of tomorrow, shaping them into the dynamic and representative collections they ought to be."
Following its preview, the full exhibition will officially open in London.
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