A new LGBTQ+ audio trail is coming to the Museum of Liverpool next week.
National Museums Liverpool is partnering with Bottoming, the LGBTQ+ mental health podcast, to bring visitors a new audio exploration of some of the hidden stories behind key objects in their collections.
Available from Tuesday, June 21, the feature will guide visitors through the museum with Matthew Riley and Brendan Geoghegan – hosts of Bottoming podcast – “using their own experiences and conversational tone to add a personal, relevant touch to experiencing the collections.” It is hoped LGBTQ+ visitors to the museum will be able to hear their own experiences represented, while other visitors will have the chance to explore fresh perspectives on Liverpool's rich, diverse culture.
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Matthew and Brendan from Bottoming podcast said: “It’s been an incredible experience delving into the LGBTQ+ past and present of the city through the museum collection, and a reminder of the importance of saving and sharing the stories from our community. These stories shouldn’t be lost.
"Far too many have been in the years that have passed, thanks to discriminatory laws and policies with many causing significant pain to the generations that walked before us. We want everybody that visits the museum to enjoy exploring the galleries with us through an LGBTQ+ lens, whether they are in the community or not, and take the stories forward to ensure that our histories are forever shared and celebrated.”
The stories included in the trail are varied from the artwork of Pete Burns by local artist Ben Youdan to the hidden LGBTQ+ story behind a Huntley & Palmers biscuit jar, visitors will have the opportunity to explore new sides to stories they may already feel they’re familiar with.
The trail also uncovers the tale behind the first anti-homophobia sign to be displayed at a Premier League football club at Anfield in 2011, along with highlights from Liverpool LGBTQ+ nightlife. After completing it, visitors can head to the Wondrous Place gallery where many more LGBTQ+ related objects are on display including a Killing Eve outfit worn by Jodie Comer.
Kay Jones, lead curator of urban and community history at NML, added: “I’m really looking forward to visitors discovering lots of new, exciting stories about our collections and displays. Matthew and Brendan take us on a wonderful personal journey, exploring global pop culture icons, inspiring local campaigners and unexpected items hidden in plain sight.”
