LGBTQ+ History Month 2024
Celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month Through New Acquisitions
This month is an opportunity for us to reflect on the courage, resilience and triumphs that have shaped the diverse tapestry of the LGBTQ+ community.
LGBTQ+ history month celebrates the countless individuals who, against adversity, dared to be their authentic selves and championed the right to love freely. It’s a reminder that every story, every struggle and every triumph has contributed to our rich history.
We’re delighted to announce the recent acquisition of three pieces created and inspired by the LGBTQ+ community. Let’s take a look at our new collection pieces…
Binder Created by Ollie Coles
We have acquired this black lycra binder, hand painted with flowers and the words ‘When in Bloom’. The binder was created by Ollie Coles, a tattoo artist based here in Preston. Ollie painted the binder as a reaction to the transphobia he experienced – creating something beautiful out of pain.
‘When in Bloom’ refers to coming into yourself, progress, growth, and becoming the person you truly are. The Harris acquired Ollie’s binder so we can share and preserve his story with our communities and for future generations.
The Rose Dress
The dress was created by Ross Griffiths of Kingfisher Couture, a Preston-born designer, who found inspiration in The Harris’ fashion and textile displays during his visits with his mother while growing up in Chorley.
The Rose Dress symbolises growth, reflecting Ross’s own transformation. The thornless rose motif on the dress signifies rebirth and the designer’s journey of overcoming addiction and homelessness, with HIV diagnosis being a turning point. The dress aligns with The Harris’s commitment to inclusivity and the representation of diverse communities within its collections.
The acquisition aligns with The Harris’s objectives to diversify its collection, represent local creativity, and engage with diverse communities in Preston.
Watch Ross and Scott discuss the Rose Dress!
The Empire Ensemble
Ross Griffiths has generously match-donated the purchase of the Rose Dress by offering his entire outfit worn to receive the This is Icon Emerging Designer Award in February 2023. This outfit, a flamboyant and extravagant statement, embodies his identity as a designer and personality, perfect for The Harris First Floor Balcony Gallery, which celebrates themes of identity and belonging.
The Harris is partnering with Lancashire Archives to bring you an evening of LGBTQ+ fashion
The Harris’ Decorative Art Curator Scott will showcase The Harris’ most recent acquisitions that celebrate creativity within the LGBTQ+ community.
The talk will be followed by a live Q&A with Preston born designer Ross Griffiths, winner of the 2023 This Is Icon Emerging Designer Award. With funding from Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, The Harris acquired a dress from Ross’ debut collection from London Fashion Week in 2023.
When and Where?
- The event will take place on Wednesday 21st February 2024
- The event will start at 6.00pm and end at around 7.30pm
- The event will take place at Lancashire Archives
LGBTQ+ History Month
Join us as we explore LGBTQ+ History including the Camp in the Collection series, Exhibit Gay and Harris collection objects and artworks.
Join performance artist Harry Clayton-Wright as we go on a quest to find the campest items in the Harris collections. Harry, a self confessed ‘connoisseur of camp’, has unearthed a variety of treasures from the Harris stores. They will take this opportunity to explore the queer roots of camp, looking at what makes these items so special and how they relate to LGBTQ life and culture.
Blogs
Want to know more? Super! Read more about the Harris collection objects and artworks featured in the above videos:
Notes on Episode 1: Costume collection
Exhibit Gay
A display has been curated and written by the Harris LGBTQ+ Group, which includes people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer. Exhibit Gay is about our journey – the past, present and future of LGBTQ+ representation at the Harris and our hopes for the future.
Lancashire LGBT
Visit the Lancashire LGBT website for support and advice for LGBTQIA+ people to be happier, healthier and better connected.
What’s Next?
We hope that the above resources have piqued your interest. These videos and blogs are a starting point, a springboard into LGBTQIA+ history.
