Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
The Steffen Thomas Museum of Art (STMA) is thrilled to announce its latest exhibition, *Queer Perspectives*, a celebration of LGBTQ+ art and culture that promises to be both thought-provoking and uplifting. Opening on August 10, 2024, and running through January 4, 2025, this juried exhibition is part of STMA’s ongoing commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives in the art world.
For over four years, the Brotherhood Exhibitions at STMA have been a beacon of inclusivity, providing a platform for underrepresented artists. This year’s theme, Queer Perspectives, challenges the conventional understanding of “brotherhood,” exploring how gender identity and queerness reshape our interpretation of community and shared humanity. The exhibition draws inspiration from Steffen Thomas’s credo, “This world is too small for less than brotherhood, too dangerous for less than truth,” words he inscribed on a granite wall at his studio in Stone Mountain over 60 years ago. His belief in the importance of humanity and equality resonates deeply with the mission of this exhibition.
STMA is proud to present the works of 12 remarkable Georgia-based LGBTQ+ artists, selected from numerous submissions to the museum’s spring Call for Art. The jurors, Melania Armenta, Demetri Burke, Yu-Kai Lin, and Christina Schlesinger, have brought together a vibrant collection that speaks to the heart of what it means to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
One of the exhibition’s jurors, Christina Schlesinger, shared her personal connection to the theme, reflecting on her own journey as an artist and activist. “I came out a long time ago—the early 1970s. I knew of no other lesbian artists at the time, and images of lesbians in art were almost non-existent,” Schlesinger recalls. “One of the hardest parts of coming out was this lack of imagery, the invisibility of the queer perspective. I could not see myself anywhere. Fast forward to the LGBTQ world of today. While people are more out now, there is still an urgent need for the recognition of LGBTQ art and artists, especially in these fraught, divisive times. Mutual recognition is how we discover our shared humanity.”
This shared humanity is beautifully captured in the works of the featured artists: Nat Blooming, Perrine Gaudry, Rial Rye, Ezra Witkowski, Yousef Bushehri, Krista M. Jones, Royce Soble, Cassie Wright, David Clifton-Strawn, LaSalle, Jeffrey Wilcox Paclipan, and Clint Zeagler. Each artist brings a unique perspective, using their creativity to explore themes of identity, belonging, and visibility. Their works span a variety of mediums, from painting and sculpture to digital art, offering visitors a rich and diverse experience.
A special exhibition by Freddie L. Styles will also be showcased, adding another layer of depth to this powerful collection. Styles, known for his vibrant and expressive work, is a fitting addition to this celebration of queer artistry.
The Steffen Thomas Museum of Art, nestled in the picturesque town of Buckhead, Georgia, is more than just a museum; it’s a community hub where art and activism meet. The Queer Perspectives exhibition is a testament to the museum’s dedication to fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding. By bringing together these talented artists, STMA not only celebrates the richness of LGBTQ+ culture but also challenges visitors to consider the evolving meanings of identity, community, and brotherhood.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, or simply looking for inspiration, Queer Perspectives is an exhibition not to be missed. Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the incredible talent of these artists and the important conversations their work inspires.