Making a Rukus!
Making a Rukus! Black Queer Histories Through Love and Resistance at Somerset House London, until 19 January Playful, radical and disruptive world exploring Black LGBTQ+ cultural and political history. Visit: https://www.somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/making-a-rukus
An exhibition celebrating the joy, friendship, resistance, and art of Black LGBTQIA+ people in Britain.
Rousing and emotional, the materials showcase themes of love, community, and resistance, highlighting the evolving culture of Black LGBTQ+ life.
Topher Campbell, artist, filmmaker, and co-founder of rukus! federation, curates the exhibition. It explores Black Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Trans creativity, activism, and pride. Visitors will see archive materials, contemporary artworks, and new commissions. The exhibition honors Black LGBTQ+ pioneers and artists from the 1970s onward.
The rukus! archive inspires this celebration. It is not static. Instead, it is a living series of political and artistic statements. It witnesses the joy, resilience, and creativity of Black LGBTQ+ communities in Britain.
Evan Ifekoya, artist and performer, presents a commissioned work. Their interactive installation, A Score, A Groove, A Phantom, A rukus!, creates an immersive, club-like space for visitors.
The exhibition also offers public talks, tours, events, and a new film commission.
Throughout the show, a rukus! flag, designed by multidisciplinary artist Jacob V Joyce, will fly. It symbolizes the lasting legacy and impact of the rukus! Federation.
