A defining moment with (Un)Defining Queer: A review of the Whitworth’s (Un)Defining Queer
When looking back on exhibitions I have had the pleasure of seeing, The Whitworth Gallery’s (Un)Defining Queer has burrowed into my brain and left me with many themes and ideas to consider. They remain, even after the exhibition closed on December 3rd, 2023.
(Un)Defining Queer’s curator Dominic Bilton has created a new language on which to explore an art collection and create a brand-new glossary relating to Queer art History. Through his ongoing community engagement, Bilton has created an exhibition with a flavor unlike any Queer Art exhibition I have seen. There is a synergy that you feel climbing those stairs. Seeing the (Un)Defining Queer Tapestry hanging as a Queer person made me feel a sense of emotion.
As a museum visitor and student of Arts Management, I look at exhibitions with a highly critical eye. I am pleased to say that during my initial and subsequent visits to (Un)Defining Queer, my critical eye was tempered by the connections I felt to the exhibit. Dominic Bilton has created a space where the Queer community can feel links to the museum. Bilton mentions that he felt like nothing represented him and his point of view when visiting museums, a key theme as to why he felt so strongly about mounting this exhibition. I was particularly moved by the artwork chosen for the exhibit, especially the inclusion of General Idea’s AIDS wallpaper. It was interesting to hear Bilton’s perspectives on selecting the pieces for this exhibition and wanting to celebrate and educate rather than mourn. I felt the joy in these artworks, like a community that worked tirelessly to create something everyone could enjoy and engage in within the gallery.
The exhibition’s density and the displays’ richness can be daunting for any museum visitor, even a seasoned museum visitor like me; I brought this up with Dominic. I learned that this little exhibition has grown too large for its current home, but there are plans to see where it goes and how it will grow. (Un)Defining Queer is an exhibit best enjoyed slowly. This exhibit has many layers; the zines add a personal touch and provide a respite from the densely hung sections. My biggest regret is not talking to the gallery attendants. I gained a wealth of knowledge about current research into the United Kingdom’s AIDS memorial quilt from talking to Sophie on my second visit, something I should have done on my first visit.
One of the main themes of my conversation with Bilton was documentation and archiving. Dominic and I have experience working in archives settings (he is a curator and researcher, and I was a collections manager), which means we understand the importance of working with community groups. What struck me about this exhibition is the community engagement and support given to (Un)Defining Queer. When you have an exhibition opening that close to 900 people attend, Manchester Drag Royalty Cheddar Gorgeous donates a costume to act as a centerpiece of your exhibit, the ability to rehang parts of the display to coincide with World AIDS Day, and you involve front of house staff in the research behind the scenes; that is the mark of something extraordinary.
I feel very blessed and lucky to have picked Bilton’s brain and seen something so wonderful in (Un) Defining Queer. I am proud to be a community member and feel privileged to write this review. Bilton’s dedication to the creation of this Queer glossary and his devotion to the little exhibition that has grown into a smash hit is inspiring. It puts into perspective numerous things as I approach my master’s Dissertation project.
I am looking forward to getting my hands on the Exhibition Catalogue for (Un)Defining Queer and seeing what other events and exhibits come out of this first iteration.
One thing is for sure, Bilton has set himself apart with his approach to curation and his desire for the Queer Community representation. I am excited to follow Bilton’s career and look forward to collaborating with them on future projects.
