Qtopia Sydney prepares to bid farewell to four landmark exhibitions, Becoming, Dykes on Bikes, The Original Activists and Sydney WorldPride 2023 – Gather, Dream, Amplify on 22 December.
As Qtopia Sydney temporarily closes its doors from 22 December 2024 to 29 January 2025 to prepare for an exciting slate of new exhibitions in 2025, it invites audiences to reflect on the powerful stories of LGBTQIA+ resilience, creativity and history these leaving exhibitions have shared.
“These exhibitions have been transformative experiences for our audiences, offering spaces to reflect on where we’ve come from, who we are and the resilience of our community,” said Qtopia Sydney’s Curatorial Director George Savoulis.
Since opening in February of this year, Becoming has been a cornerstone of Qtopia Sydney’s inaugural season. This critically acclaimed exhibition explored the evolution of gender expression throughout history, highlighting figures such as the trailblazing Peta Friend and offering an evocative blend of art, history and personal storytelling. Recognised as a nominee at the MGSNW IMAGinE Awards, Becoming celebrates identity beyond the binary.
Dykes on Bikes, curated by Dr. Liz Bradshaw, chronicled the history of one of Australia’s oldest LBGTQIA+ community groups. This heartfelt exhibition honoured the spearheading female-identified motorcycle club’s activism and community building, spanning from their patrols of Darlinghurst, Surry Hills and Newtown in the 1980s and 1990s, to their ongoing role as dynamic Queer activists today. Emily Saunders, president of Sydney Dykes on Bikes, described the exhibition as “incredibly meaningful” and a proud moment for the community.
The Original Activists, curated by Steven Ross, celebrated First Nations LGBTQIA+ trailblazers. Developed in partnership with Boomalli Aboriginal Arts Cooperative and the Australian Queer Archives, the exhibition features portraits, artwork and activist posters, honouring figures such as Dennis Golding-Bowman and Uncle Jeffrey Samuel.
Finally, Sydney WorldPride 2023 – Gather, Dream, Amplify, curated by Ben Graetz, reflected on the first WorldPride in the Southern Hemisphere and the largest LGBTQIA+ event ever staged in the region. Highlighting iconic moments such as the Harbour Bridge march, the Human Rights Conference and the celebration of First Nations voices.
Qtopia Sydney invites visitors to explore these remarkable exhibitions before their closure on 22 December, and to return in 2025 for another year of groundbreaking programming.
In 2025, audiences can expect a bold and diverse program that continues to challenge, inspire and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
“A sneak glimpse into Qtopia Sydney’s 2025 kickstart: a pop star’s allure, fine art, secrets from the closet, bold conversations and an everlasting night of celebration! 2025 will be a celebration of resilience, community and the unique stories that shape our collective LGBTQIA+ identity,” concluded Mr Savoulis.
