Lesbian and Queer Art/Action in 1980s Britain

29 Feb 2024 7-8.30pm

Tate Britain

London SW1P 4RG

Overview

Join Women in Revolt! artists for a panel discussion on the histories and legacies of lesbian and queer art and activism in Britain during the 1980s

The 1980s were a critical decade in the struggle for lesbian rights and visibility in Britain. Society’s attitudes towards lesbians and queer individuals were largely shaped by stigma and ignorance, and media representation of lesbians was largely absent or concentrated on the perpetuation of narrow stereotypes. Despite facing widespread prejudice and homophobic policies such as the passing of Section 28, the LGBTQ+ community found ways to create spaces for liberation and solidarity.

Featuring Women in Revolt! artists, this panel discussion takes their diverse bodies of work as a starting point to explore the nuanced ways in which art-making was used as a means of resistance and radical self-expression, fostered communities, and helped establish lesbian rights as part of the public discourse.

Moderated by Dr Maggie Matić, the event aims to explore the historical resonance of 1980s lesbian and queer art in Britain and how it continues to inform art and activism today.

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