The Power of Visibility: Boldness in LGBTQ+ Art to Open in Long Beach

Anima and Animus by Janet Havey. Photo courtesy of LBCG.

LGBTQ+ Art Exhibition Opens June 22

The Long Beach Creative Group invites the community to experience The Power of Visibility: Boldness in LGBTQ+ Art, an art exhibition which opens with two receptions on June 22, and Sunday, June 23, and runs through July 20.

Thirty-nine artists who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community submitted work. The three jurors for the exhibition, Lucas Gordon, Brian Trimble and Jenson Titus selected 58 pieces by 29 artists for the exhibition, representing a wide variety of media and subject matter.

“Self Portrait” by Samantha Amato.
Photo courtesy of LBCG.

Exhibit coordinator Travis Stock-Tucker said, “Visibility is the first step towards equality. Art has the power to make the unseen seen, and the unheard heard. Through the lens of art, we can shatter stereotypes, challenge prejudices, and pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding world.”

Marka Burns, President and founder of the Long Beach Creative Group, said, “This exhibit is a continuation of our commitment to connect with, and showcase, the diversity of our city’s complex creative community, and to amplify voices that might not find opportunities elsewhere.”

“Portrait of the Artist as Dorian Gray” by Robin Venter.
Photo courtesy of LBCG.

In addition to the exhibition, several special events are also scheduled. At 6pm June 28, the LBCG will be hosting The History of Stonewall, which will focus on the history and legacy of gay activism, including the 1969 uprising in response to brutal police actions against people at The Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village. LBCG will host its monthly movie night at 8 p.m., July 12 featuring Paris Is Burning. This iconic documentary offers an intimate look at the vibrant drag ball culture of New York City in the late 1980s. On July 20, LBCG will close the exhibition with Strut Your Stuff, a costumed ball drawing inspiration from the exuberance of the 1990 cinematic celebration of drag, Paris is Burning.

‘Kobe Beef AKA Pearl Harper’ by Jason Miller.
Photo courtesy of LBCG.

The LBCG is an established consortium of experienced artists, educators, and art enthusiasts engaged in creating exhibit space and opportunities for local artists through curated exhibits and events. Since 2019, the Rod Briggs Gallery has enabled the group to consistently and professionally present the depth and diversity of artistic expression in Long Beach and the surrounding communities.

The Rod Briggs Gallery is open to the public Fridays through Sundays, from 1 pm to 4 pm. No appointment is required.

Time: 1 to 4 p.m., June 22 and 23

Cost: Free

Details: LongBeachCreativeGroup.com

Venue: Rod Briggs Gallery, 2221 E Broadway Long Beach