Exhibitions
Opening exhibitions at Qtopia Sydney are guided by five major themes: HIV/AIDS, human rights, sexuality and identity, media representation and First Nations stories.
Each of these themes will be expanded over time, with new exhibitions opening in coming months. Visitors are advised that these exhibitions contain references to disturbing events, violence, grief and loss and may be upsetting for some viewers.
Current Exhibitions
The Apology
In 2018, the NSW Police Force formally apologised to the '78ers, participants in the first Mardi Gras in 1978, for the pain caused by police actions.
Crime To Freedom
Crime to Freedom looks at recent LGBTQIA+ history from the 1970s, through decriminalisation to the current day across law
HIV/AIDS Memorial
The HIV/AIDS Memorial is a dynamic yet gentle and inclusive tribute, using vivid stories, intimate photographs and community
The Original Activists
As a celebration of First Nations activism creativity, this exhibition recognises the LGBTQIA+ Trailblazers
The Underground
Inspired by the site of the public toilet block at Taylor Square, ‘The Underground' charts a history of cruising and Queer sex
Dirty Words: First Nations Languages
The Dirty Words: First Nations Languages’ exhibit holds work by some of the most remarkable First Nations Queer writers
Lesbians on the Loose
This exhibition is a timeline of lesbian representation and reporting by the long-running, lesbian owned and staffed publication
Sydney Star Observer
The Star Observer exhibition commemorates 45 years of LGBTQIA+ resilience and progress through a visually compelling display of covers
Where We Are
The former Darlinghurst Police Station, now home to Qtopia Sydney, embodies Sydney's historical evolution
1978 – Hour By Hour
1978 - Hour by Hour is an exhibition chronicling the pivotal year of 1978 in Sydney's LGBTQIA+ history, inviting visitors to appreciate
Becoming
Becoming is a showcase of how various forms of gender expression have interacted, intertwined and evolved in Queer communities.
We’re Here, We’re Queer
We’re Here, We’re Queer is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride in Australia using maps, Queer terminology and colourful symbolism
Sydney WorldPride 2023 – Gather, Dream, Amplify
Sydney WorldPride 2023 - Gather, Dream, Amplify presents elements of Sydney WorldPride and gives audiences
HIV Today
HIV Today provides a historical and contemporary context for the ongoing understanding of HIV/AIDS locally
Ward 17th South
Ward 17 South is presented in partnership with St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney and recreates a room from the first dedicated HIV/AIDS treatment
Dykes on Bikes
The Dykes on Bikes are an essential and exciting start to every Mardi Gras Parade - a celebrated institution of activist lesbian women
130BPM: Soundtrack to a Revolution
130BPM: Soundtrack to a Revolution is a celebration of a cross-section of incredible, Queer musical talent.
Interviews with Jonathon Moran
Interviews with Jonathon Moran is an exhibition that features a diverse collection of 24 compelling interviews.
