Get ready to be amazed! We’re entering a new era of beauty, one where creativity knows no bounds and queer expression takes center stage. This bold new chapter was unveiled in London, where Dazed and Mimosa House joined forces with Burberry to launch EXCHANGE. This groundbreaking initiative is all about fostering collaboration and supporting creative communities.
A Celebration of Queer Talent
The inaugural EXCHANGE: LONDON focused on highlighting the brilliance of queer artists. This was more than just a party; it was a vibrant showcase of creativity, performance, and the arts. The event unfolded in a series of captivating experiences across several locations, leaving guests mesmerized.
The heart of the event beat at Mimosa House, a vital queer space founded by curator Daria Khan. Khan is a tireless advocate for LGBTQIA+, POC, and diasporic artists. The evening kicked off with captivating video installations by Marikiscrycrycry and Vir Andres Hera, setting the tone for a night of artistic exploration. Romeo Roxman Gatt then took the stage, captivating the audience with a powerful live performance alongside his film Smoke Machine, Lion and Jeep (2021). The performance was a heartfelt tribute to Gatt’s younger self, a footballer grappling with identity before transitioning. It was a poignant reminder of the power of self-expression and acceptance. The crowd, which included fellow artists like Michael Moon, Bones Tan Jones, and Adham Faramawy, was captivated by Gatt’s raw talent and the emotional depth of his art.
Pushing Boundaries with Immersive Art
The night continued at Dazed Space, where guests were transported into a world of transformative art. This segment, curated by Khan, highlighted the vibrant community of Mimosa House. The highlight of the evening was Agnes Questionmark’s performance, a mesmerizing exploration of the human body and its potential for evolution. Questionmark’s work is a testament to the boundless possibilities of creativity, and the power of art to challenge societal norms.
Questionmark’s performance, titled Attempt 1: Transgenic Mutation Experiment (2022), involved a series of “surgeries” performed on an artificial womb. As guests looked on in awe, the womb underwent a metamorphosis, revealing the creature inside. The performance was both awe-inspiring and unsettling, leaving the audience questioning the very definition of life and evolution.
Extending the Celebration: Beyond the Party
The festivities culminated at Queen of Adelaide, an East London queer club, where the celebration of creativity continued. DJ sets by Nadine Noor and Basmati kept the dance floor buzzing, while photographer Roxy Lee captured the energy of the night. This event was more than just a party; it was a powerful statement about the importance of supporting queer artists and amplifying their voices.
In a touching gesture of support, Burberry capped off the night with a donation to Mimosa House, solidifying their commitment to fostering the next generation of queer artists. EXCHANGE: LONDON was not just a celebration of art; it was a powerful declaration that the future of creativity is queer, inclusive, and bold.
The Undetectable Era of Beauty has arrived, and it’s a beautiful, vibrant, and inspiring world to be a part of.
