Does Anything Else Under Heaven Really Matter?

Join our sister organisation, D Contemporary art gallery, on 29th May from 18.00-20.00 for the private view of their new exhibition, ‘Does anything else under heaven really matter?’, curated by Will Coups. Loosely taking influence from Giovanni’s Room, the exhibition aims to explore an LGBTQIA+ perspective on how we interact with our bodies, sex, and image within the wider world.

BRIAN DAWN CHALKLEY | ELENA HOSKYNS-ABRAHALL | HESI GLOWACKI | THEO VASILOUDES | KIARASH KHAZAEI

By drawing inspiration from the themes and emotional depth of Baldwin's seminal work, the exhibition seeks to unravel the complexities of identity and self-expression in contemporary society. It examines the often hidden interactions and subtle nuances of existence that define the LGBTQIA+ experience, decoding the myriad ways of being and understanding ourselves. Through five multidisciplinary artists, the exhibition focuses on expressions based on real life experiences and provides a platform for voices and stories that challenge conventional norms, inviting viewers to engage with the intimate and transformative aspects of bodily autonomy, sexual identity, and personal image. It encourages a deeper reflection on how societal perceptions and personal experiences intersect, shaping our understanding of authenticity and visibility in a world that frequently imposes rigid expectations and judgments.

Navigating feelings of alienation and societal judgment, the exhibition delves deeply into tropes of loneliness and the complexities of the human condition within the LGBTQIA+ community. Through a diverse array of artistic expressions and narratives, it raises profound questions about what it means to truly belong. The exhibition examines the multifaceted impact of social and personal alienation on an individual's life, exploring how these experiences shape identity, self-perception, and the quest for acceptance. By addressing themes of isolation, resilience, and community, the exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the universal desire for connection and understanding in a world that often marginalizes those who deviate from societal norms.

The exhibition will showcase the work of Brian Dawn Chalkley, a visual and performance artist, storyteller and teacher. Formative in the trans community since the early 90’s, the artist is known for their performances as Dawn, a leading role in London’s underground trans clubbing scene in the 1980s and ‘90s, a time when it was deemed unacceptable and perverse. Alongside Chalkley’s works will be pieces by Theo Vasiloudes, Hesi Glowacki, Elena Hoskyns Abrahall and Kiarash Khazaei.

D Contemporary specialises in two areas; helping newly graduating and emerging artists gain exposure to the commercial art world far earlier than might otherwise be possible and showcasing contemporary art from dynamic artistic communities around the world.