Our collections include original post-Stonewall art works, with a particular focus on a genre known as “outsider art,” or art that is considered to be outside of mainstream art as a medium. Contributed by local queer artists and not necessarily considered “fine art” by mainstream culture, the works of art the SMA includes are no less precious in their value to communicate beauty, passion, strength, and the experience of LGBTQI lives. Much of this art was created for the LGBTQI community as the intended viewing or listening audience. As such, it may reflect the least told and often silenced stories of the communities of people that fall under the umbrella of sexual minorities. Many of the pieces attempt to capture the full range of sexual expression in LGBTQI communities, and portray a range of gender identity, sexual, and cultural expressions.
Preserving Our Art
While many of our art works hang on the walls of the SMA, the full Art collection is not exhibited at the SMA at this time. Through community support, we intend to improve access to the Art by creating a permanent art gallery space at the SMA’s new location for public viewing. We are dedicated to ensuring that the art that is contributed by our community is properly protected, preserved, shown, and viewed by as many LGBTQI visitors to the SMA as possible.
If you would like to support the development of our SMA art gallery and help with such expenses as art mattes, frames, display units, and more, consider making a donation to SMEF, Inc. earmarked for this purpose.
Sexual Minorities Archives 