Liberating Love 2025
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Liberating Love 2025
\\\\\\\\\\We are pleased to be hosting the Liberating Love exhibition and programme please see all workshop details below.
No booking required
Tuesday 11th February 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Soft Launch Opening
Join us for the opening of the exhibition with light refreshments and the unveiling of banners that will be installed around Croydon.
Saturday 15th February 11: 00 AM - 1:00 PM
Dyke Day, Lesbians and their Nights Out: Quilt workshop
Facilitator: STAV B
The workshop is an exploration of art, history, and community. It will begin with a presentation of Stav’s work, including a short film and an overview of their current practice, followed by a Q&A session. The second part will introduce the art of quilt-making, a craft that involves stitching together layers of fabric and padding, creating designs that tell stories. Aiming to preserve our stories and craft a symbolic piece of communal art.
Saturday, 15th February 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Talk on Solidarity - LGBTQ+ Pride and Solidarity
Speaker: Claire Truscott
Join Clare Truscott for a talk on LGBTQ+ Pride and Solidarity.. Clare is one of the key figures explored in the exhibition, which celebrates love as an act of activism.. In this talk, Clare will reflect on her legacy as an activist, sharing her experiences from the 80s and 90s. She will discuss the importance of solidarity in fostering community resilience.
Saturday, 22nd February 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Badge Caffe Workshop - Ray Harvey Tribute
Facilitator: Badge Caffe
The workshop invites you to relax, create, and express yourself by making unique badges inspired by Ray Harvey’s collection. Using old books, magazines, and materials connected to LGBTQ+ community and activism, you’ll craft badges that blend art, politics, and personal expression. Explore how these small objects serve as powerful symbols while enjoying a playful and welcoming space. Whether you stay for five minutes or a few hours, everything is provided to help you connect and create.
Saturday, 22nd February 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Tea with Norman - Exploration of the Exhibition and Open Discussion
Facilitator: Norman Mine
Join Norman Mine for an open conversation within the Liberating Love exhibition, where he will discuss how the exhibition has become a learning process, exploring collaboration and intersectionality. Norman will share insights from his experience working on community-based projects.
Sunday, 23rd February 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Drag Photoshoot
Facilitators: Christa Holka & Bougie Bourgeoisie
A photography and drag workshop led by photographer, Christa Holka, and drag queen, Bourgeoisie. Christa will give a short introduction about their work and the basics of studio photography/lighting and bring a camera and studio lighting for the participants to use to photograph each other. Bougie will bring costumes and make-up and give a short introduction on dragging up. Bougie’s dragging up will emphasise fun, creation and making major looks with whatever’s on hand. Together Christa and Bougie will work with the participants to create photographs of the participants dressed and made-up in drag.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Trans Experience and the Powerful Legacy of Trans Activism
Facilitator: Claudia Golder-Coelho
This workshop explores the trans experience and the legacy of trans activism, highlighting key moments, figures, and the resilience of Croydon’s trans community. Through discussions, activities, and shared experiences, the session fosters learning, connection, and empowerment, while supporting trans youth and amplifying their voices. It is a celebration of trans history and a call to advocate for equality together.
DJ Stav B