LGBTQA Art Exhibit
In the last week of March, Montgomery College (Rockville) held the “Sarah Silberman Art Gallery” exhibit in which they showcased featured artwork from individuals who identify as members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and allies (LGBTQA) community. The exhibit’s primary goal was to display unique works of art that speak to the public in hopes of advocating for the freedom to step outside of gender roles.
The “Sarah Silberman Art Gallery,” or “OUT/Break,” was curated by two of MC’s professors; Instructors Robin Meyer and Molly Nuzzo. The term OUT/Break represents a collection of visual commentary by national artists who responded to a calling by the two curators to the radical shifts and implications of “normality” as experienced in the LGBTQA culture and community.
Many of the works in the exhibit display men participating in traditionally female roles, or vice versa. One painting depicts a man ascending the staircase in a long elegant white ball gown and pearls. In one video a woman makes a penis out of a collection of socks and then proceeds to dangle it between her legs.
In modern times we find that gender roles are becoming blurred, where many of the activities that were traditionally considered more feminine or masculine have been adopted by members of the opposite sex. This exhibit campaigns the goals the LGBTQA has not just for its members but society as a whole. “We really want to speak to the public who are so deeply rooted in homophobic tendencies, whether they are intentional or unintentional” said Professor Meyer.
“Many members of the LGBTQA have been through struggles of identification regarding the manner in which they chose to express themselves” said Professor Meyer.
The primary goal of the exhibit is to exclaim the importance of being you, no matter what society deems appropriate. “Everyone is unique and beautiful” pushed Professor Meyer
The exhibit seeks to emphasize the role of humanity as whole. It details certain problems faced by certain ethnicities within the LGBTQA such as African-Americans, or Latinos, or Asians who may undergo even more struggles once coming out or identifying as lesbian or gay. “We understand the hardships certain cultures place on their youth and we want to tell them that it is truly ok” persisted Professor Meyer.
As a member of the LGBTQA community, Meyer’s experience adds to her desire to help the upcoming youth who she felt is full of potential and immensely important concerning gay rights.
The exhibit seeks to connect with its audience and express to people that they have the freedom to exercise their personality how best they see fit. The exhibit also looks to educate people that as time progresses lines set to define gender roles are dissipating and that is ok.
They say a picture speaks a thousand words. This proves true. Many of the featured works stimulate the mind and making way for interesting conversation.
If you have questions you can find Professors Meyer or Nuzzo in the art department and who’d be glad to share their insight with you.