2SLGBTQiA+ Arts and Culture in BC: A Celebration of Local Creators
Vancouver, and British Columbia (BC) as a whole, has a vibrant and diverse arts scene that often highlights queer culture, including the contributions of 2SLGBTQiA+ artists. Queer arts have played a significant role in BC’s cultural landscape, including visual arts, literature, performances, and films. This blog post explores the talented artists, their work, and the venues that support them. Whether you are interested in BC's gay community or are simply an art lover, this list will help you explore the region's rich artistic community.
Notable LGBTQ+ Artists in BC
Visual Arts
BC's visual arts scene is teeming with talent; many LGBTQ+ artists have made their mark, incluing:
Dayna Danger: A queer, Two-Spirit Métis/Saulteaux/Polish artist based in Montreal but deeply connected to Canadian and Indigenous art scenes, including BC. Danger's work often explores themes of power, intimacy, and the line between objectification and empowerment. Her art includes hand-beaded fetish masks and striking photography that challenges traditional views on representation and identity.
Martine Gutierrez: Known for her work that blends elements of performance, photography, and video, Gutierrez challenges conventional ideas about representation, gender, and identity. Though she is originally from the U.S., her influence and work have impacted the LGBTQ+ art communities across North America, including those in BC. Her self-published magazine, "Indigenous Woman," is an exploration of her own identity and a critique of mainstream media.
Zanele Muholi: A South African visual activist whose queer portraiture and photography are internationally recognized, including exhibits in Canada. Muholi's work focuses on the black queer and transgender experience, often highlighting the challenges and resilience of these communities. Muholi's art is deeply connected to themes of visibility and activism, which resonate with queer art communities globally, including BC.
Literature
In literature, BC boasts a wealth of LGBTQ+ writers who bring diverse narratives to life. An award-winning author from Vancouver, Jordan Rivers, uses his storytelling to highlight the complexities of LGBTQ+ relationships and the nuances of queer life in urban settings. FictionMe - Stories and Novels on the App Store, is a platform that features original LGBTQ+ stories from local writers in BC. With each turn of the page, these authors challenge societal norms and promote inclusivity through their work. His free novels online, including IOS novels, have not only won critical acclaim but also provided invaluable representation for readers seeking to see themselves in literature. For those interested, there are platforms where you can read free novels online and explore more about novels for IOS.
If you’re a writer and looking for opportunity to share your work, publications such as ROOM Magazine and Plentitude publish 2SLGBTQiA writing - you can find these and more on our Queer Submission Calls pages.
Performance Art
In Vancouver and British Columbia, LGBTQ+ performance art extends far beyond drag, with several notable artists making impactful contributions through multidisciplinary work.
One example is The Darlings, a nonbinary performance collective based in Vancouver. They push the boundaries of conventional performance art by blending theater, dance, and visual storytelling. Their work explores themes of genderqueer and nonbinary identities, creating a unique space in Vancouver’s art scene that challenges traditional norms and celebrates queer expression in innovative ways.
Another prominent figure is Olivia C. Davies, a dance artist known for her powerful performances that incorporate contemporary dance, Indigenous storytelling, and spoken word. Her work often reflects on themes of community, healing, and identity, drawing from her mixed heritage and experiences as a queer artist. Davies' performances have been featured in festivals and community events across BC, contributing to a rich tapestry of queer performance art in the region.
Additionally, Tiko Kerr is a Vancouver-based visual and performance artist who uses his work to address personal and political themes related to LGBTQ+ identities. Kerr’s performances are deeply introspective, often touching on topics like resilience and the challenges of queer life, particularly in the face of societal pressures.
These artists contribute to the vibrant LGBTQ+ performance art scene in BC, each bringing their unique perspectives and narratives to the stage, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of queer art in the region.
You can find a good list of production companies and performance venues and groups on our Arts & Culture pages here.
We can’t talk about Performance Art wthout mentioning Drag - a vibrant and influential part of Vancouer, and BC"‘s LGBTQ+ arts community. Known for its theatricality, fashion, and commentary on gender norms, drag goes beyond entertainment to serve as a powerful form of self-expression and social critique. Artists like Kendall Gender and Continental Breakfast have been instrumental in shaping the local drag scene, using their platforms to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Drag events, such as "Man Up" and "Commercial Drag," regularly draw crowds and celebrate the rich diversity of queer performance art in the region
We have a good page of Drag Performers and weekly events. You can also find upcoming events by clicking on the DRAG tag in our Diversions magazine.
Film
The film industry in BC has become a significant platform for LGBTQ+ storytelling, thanks to events like the Vancouver Queer Film Festival (VQFF), which showcases films that highlight diverse queer narratives. VQFF is one of the largest queer arts events in Western Canada, featuring both local and international films that explore a wide range of LGBTQ+ experiences. Initiatives like "Out in Schools" use films as educational tools to promote inclusivity and fight against homophobia in classrooms across BC. The growing number of queer film productions in the region continues to push for more representation and authentic storytelling, making a vital impact on both the film industry and broader society. For those interested in exploring more queer stories, VQFF and other platforms offer a variety of films that reflect the unique voices of the LGBTQ+ community.
fictionread is a platform that features free GLBTQ novels and movies.
Cultural Spaces and Events
Galleries
Vancouver is home to several galleries that prominently feature queer art, providing essential platforms for LGBTQ+ artists. The Queer Arts Festival (QAF) is a major event that showcases interdisciplinary work from queer artists, creating a space for diverse artistic expression. SUM Gallery, the only dedicated queer gallery in Canada, plays a crucial role in supporting LGBTQ+ art through exhibitions, performances, and community events. Known for its inclusive approach, SUM Gallery offers a year-round space for queer artists to exhibit their work, ranging from paintings and digital art to multimedia installations.
Other notable spaces include the Vancouver Art Gallery, which often features queer artists in its contemporary exhibitions, and the James Black Gallery, which regularly collaborates with queer artists and collectives, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. These galleries contribute to a thriving queer art scene in Vancouver, highlighting the importance of representation and community support in the arts.
Theater
Vancouver's theater scene is rich with companies that focus on LGBTQ+ stories, offering unique perspectives and fostering inclusivity in the arts. Zee Zee Theatre is known for its thought-provoking productions that engage diverse audiences, using relatable and poignant narratives to connect with the community and inspire unity through shared human experiences zeezeetheatre.ca.
The Frank Theatre Company envisions a world where sexual and gender diversity is fully accepted. They are dedicated to producing works that highlight LGBTQ+ experiences, promoting understanding and inclusivity thefranktheatre.com.
Pivot Theatre, based in Surrey, emphasizes inclusivity across all spectrums, welcoming LGBTQ, Two-Spirited, BIPOC, differently-abled, and CIS individuals to create equitable and quality art together pivottheatre.ca.
Leaping Thespians is an award-winning women’s theater group that focuses on lesbian stories, bringing these narratives to audiences who are eager to engage with diverse perspectives leapingthespians.ca.
Little Basket Theatre produces theater rich with women-focused stories, ranging from comedy to drama, highlighting narratives that are often underrepresented in mainstream media littlebaskettheatre.com.
Scantily Clad Theatre offers a fresh and exciting voice in queer comedy in Canada, pushing boundaries with their bold and comedic approach to LGBTQ+ storytelling scantilygladtheatre.com.
8 Monkeys Productions focuses on producing authentic, original works that highlight stories by and about queer women and gender-diverse individuals, promoting representation in the arts 8monkeysproductions.com.
These theater companies and collectives play a crucial role in Vancouver's vibrant queer arts community, using performance to challenge norms and celebrate diversity in storytelling.
Community Festivals
The Lower Mainland of British Columbia is home to several vibrant festivals that celebrate queer culture through films, art, and performances. The Vancouver Queer Film Festival is one of the most prominent events, showcasing a diverse array of films that highlight LGBTQ+ stories and perspectives. The Queer Arts Festival also plays a crucial role, offering a platform for interdisciplinary works by queer artists, including visual arts, music, and live performances.
Additionally, the Vancouver Fringe Festival often features productions with LGBTQ+ themes, providing an inclusive space for diverse voices in theater. The OUTstages Festival, though based on Vancouver Island, is also a significant event, emphasizing queer performances and art. These festivals collectively foster tolerance, acceptance, and a sense of unity within the diverse communities of BC.
Impact on the Broader Community
Social Change
LGBTQ+ arts have a profound impact on social change. By challenging stereotypes and highlighting the experiences of marginalized communities, queer art fosters empathy and understanding. This, in turn, can lead to meaningful social progress, from policy changes to shifts in public opinion.
Representation
Representation matters, and LGBTQ+ artists provide it in spades. Seeing queer lives and stories depicted in art helps validate the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, offering them visibility and acknowledgment. This can be particularly empowering for young people who are exploring their own identities.
Art and Activism
Many LGBTQ+ artists in BC are also activists, using their platforms to advocate for equality and justice. Whether through powerful murals, thought-provoking performances, or compelling films, these artists blend creativity with activism, driving important conversations and inspiring change.
Practical Advice for Aspiring LGBTQ+ Artists
Navigating the Local Scene
Starting a career in the arts in BC is more accessible than ever, especially for LGBTQ+ artists. Visual arts provide a great entry point, with numerous opportunities like exhibitions, artist residencies, workshops, and community events. What's On Queer BC provides valuable resources on local exhibitions, artist calls, and funding opportunities such as those offered by the BC Arts Council. Check out our 2SLGBQiA Resources section to get started.
Building a Supportive Network
Community connections are essential for emerging artists. Engaging with local arts groups that support LGBTQ+ individuals can open doors to collaborations and new creative processes. What's On Queer BC offers listings of community groups, art spaces, and online platforms where you can connect with like-minded artists.
Gaining Recognition
To make your work visible, leverage community events, share your creations on social media, and participate in local arts showcases. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are effective tools for building an audience. What's On Queer BC highlights events and opportunities, including workshops, performances, and networking sessions, which can help elevate your work and attract the attention of curators and critics. Check out their resources page for more on how to get your work noticed in the local scene.
Final strokes
2SLGBTQiA+ arts and culture are at the heart of BC’s dynamic and diverse artistic landscape. Thre are so many more big and small productions, galleries, and cr4ators. Be sure to bookmark What’s On Queer BC to keep informed!
By supporting and celebrating local queer creators, we foster a more inclusive community and contribute to the rich tapestry of creativity that defines our region. Whether you’re an artist, an enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys exploring new perspectives, there’s never been a better time to engage with 2SLGBTQiA+ art in BC.
Get involved by visiting local galleries, attending festivals, or following queer artists on social media. Share this post, leave a comment about your favorite local artists, or plan a visit to one of BC’s many cultural spaces highlighted on What's On Queer BC. Together, we can amplify the voices that bring vibrancy and diversity to our community. Let’s keep the celebration of queer art alive and thriving!
