The Smalltown Boy exhibition will open at SWG3 Zinc Bar on Friday 23 August 2024, where it will run until Friday 20 September 2024.
The exhibition, which is a heartfelt celebration of the iconic queer anthem Smalltown Boy by Bronski Beat, is set against the backdrop of Thatcherism and a conservative government, and chronicles the journey of a queer individual forced to leave their hometown due to prejudice and discrimination. Through a diverse range of artistic mediums, including photography, painting, sculpture, and a live dance music installation, this exhibition presents a show of freedom and acceptance. Rather than offering a conventional account of queer art, Smalltown Boy adopts a personal and emotive approach and invites viewers to reflect on the narrative of a smalltown boy navigating the complexities of identity and belonging in a hostile environment.
The exhibition will feature works from various artists including Csian Canave, Barney Ashton Bullock, James Horan, Steve Rapport, and Charles Jeffrey, with each offering their unique interpretation of the song's themes.
The opening of the exhibition is accompanied by a launch party in SWG3 Warehouse featuring DJs Jonbers Blonde (RuPaul’s Drag Race), Boys Shorts, Bonzai Bonner, Josh Caffe and Bosco.
If you'd like to attend the exhibition opening on Friday 23 August 2024, at 6pm in SWG3 Zinc Bar, please RSVP to [email protected]
Please note: Tickets for the afterparty in SWG3 Warehouse are sold separately.