StoneCrabs Theatre Company is to launch Out On An Island, the first LGBTQ+ history and heritage exhibition for the Isle of Wight, at Clayden Gallery on Saturday, June 19.
Discover the personal stories and memories of LGBTQ+ islanders through oral history recordings, paired with powerful portraits from island photographer Jon Habens. Take a look at stunning and expressive artwork from artists Karl Stedman and Sydney Cardew, created in response to the uncovered histories. Learn more about forward thinkers such as Phaedra Kelly, who coined the term ‘gender transient’, as well as how media coverage of the LGBTQ+ community has changed throughout the years. Find out how ‘Captain Condom’ came to Cowes, why Virginia Woolf wrote a play about Freshwater and how a gang of queer women helped save Newtown Old Town Hall.
Our Stories Matter
The documentary film Our Stories Matter highlights inspiring LGBTQ+ people and places, all with an Isle of Wight connection. Meet feisty lesbian Joe Carstairs – the ‘fastest woman on the water’ – who raced in the Solent in the 1920s. Learn about renowned architects and partners Paget and Seely, who made their home at Mottistone Manor.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0okA2MzJ80
Human rights activist Peter Tatchell said: “LGBTQ+ history and Pride events have tended to be focused on Britain’s major cities, to the neglect of more out-of-the-way places like the Isle of Wight. But LGBTQ+ people are everywhere, in all parts of the UK. This project aims to shine a light on the Island’s LGBTQ+ community and its long history: to inform, educate and inspire. Bravo!”
The venue is operating at a limited capacity so booking is essential. For tickets CLICK HERE