‘Coming Out’ a ground-breaking new photography display from recent University of Cumbria MA graduate, Faye Hughes on display at Tullie House.
In a brand-new approach for Tullie House, the museum presents a body of work that tackles head on the issues around individuals revealing their sexual and/or gender identity. The exhibition is presented within the historic surroundings of the Victorian staircase, reinvigorating this space and calling out the preconceived ideas of what museums should show, and where.
In this series of 50 sensitive portraits revealing the warmth and humanity of individuals from Cumbria in the LGBTQI+ community and their allies, alongside moving ‘coming out’ stories; stories that demonstrate the everyday concerns and pride in one’s identify, and the need for support within the community.
The 50 portraits were commissioned by PiNC (Pride in North Cumbria) to commemorate the 50 years since the Stonewall Inn riots in New York City, which was for many the start of the worldwide Pride movement.
Artist/Photographer Faye Hughes said: “For this work I wanted to encapsulate the Stonewall Riot and Cumbria Pride anniversaries to show that Pride is not just a party but should be seen more of a celebration acknowledging diversity and equality. I created this work as an acknowledgement of the achievements and progression of the LGBTQI+ community but I hope that it serves as a reminder that there is still progression to be made within society.”
Assistant Curator at Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, Claire Sleightholm said: “It’s been a pleasure to bring Faye’s work to Tullie House. It’s a first for the museum to have an exhibition by an LGBTQI+ artist about this community in Cumbria. Faye’s honest approach touched me and I felt it would be an asset to our visitors at Tullie House.”
Coming Out, an exhibition of 50 portraits of local LGBTQI+ people and their allies is now open in Tullie House and continues until 1 March 2020. Normal admission charges apply and free for Annual Ticket holders.
