A solo exhibition by Charlee M. Piper
In the UK many of the same types of policies, attitudes, and rhetoric that propelled our forebears to riot in Stonewall are still prevalent today. Margaret Thatcher’s homophobic statement in her speech to the Conservative Party’s annual conference in 1987 still echoes in the halls of Parliament and UK schools today. Transphobia is rife within a government that sought to exclude trans people from a national conversion therapy ban. LGBTQ+ folx are consistently targeted by right wing media, conservative politicians, and hate crimes. Stand is a reaction to the barrage of hate and exclusion LGBTQ+ communities have faced for generations. It will consist of several new textile pieces along with recent collage and lino print works. Stand will be the first solo exhibition by Margate-based artist Charlee M. Piper opening on Friday, 4th of August, at Joseph Wales.
Charlee chose to move to Margate five years ago in large part because it was one of the few towns that had its own Pride events at the time. After having lived in a variety of both liberal and very conservative areas in the United States it was important for Charlee to find somewhere to call home that was inclusive and diverse. Margate Pride and the Pride Art Map provide fantastic opportunities for the local LGBTQ+ community to come together and share their passion in a safe and welcoming environment.
Private view on 2nd August, 6-9pm