Vancouver’s Queer Arts Festival 2023 launches with gender-diverse group exhibition

bumfuzzled monachopsis: innerspace out is the 11-day fest’s curated show for 2023

Eda Yorulmazoglu, *CLEM'S REVENGE (2016)*.

Queer Arts Festival runs from June 17 to 28 at various venues

VANCOUVER’S Queer Arts Festival (QAF): Queers in Space has announced details of its signature curated visual-art show for 2023.

Curated by interdisciplinary artist and cultural worker Zandi Dandizette, bumfuzzled monachopsis: innerspace out features works by16 professional artists, most of whom identify along the trans or gender-diverse spectrum.

The show takes its name from a term describing “a state of bewilderment caused by a persistent feeling of being out of place”.

“The exhibit’s title ‘bumfuzzled monachopsis: innerspace out’ reflects the uncertain times in which our collective world does not ascertain belonging to those occupying it. Our parallel universes of experience, never quite overlapping, seeking out an idealized community, that “me-shaped” hole in which inclusion is touted.” Dandizette says in their artist statement. “We are not a homogenized whole, but many individuals all seeking that future space in which belonging can be achieved.”

Working with 3D sculpture, textile art, painting, photography, film, and live performance, the local, U.S.-based, and international artists include Eda Birthing, Helena "lilpurp666" St Tearer, Jaik “PUPPYTEETH” Olson, Judah Kong, Kale Roberts, Kali Fish, Leby Le Morìa, Levi Nelson, Makoto Chi, Moozhan Ahmadzadegan, Odera Igbokwe, Parisa Rafat, Pastiche Lumumba, Rachel Britton, Raven John, Romi Kim, and Kendell Yan & Chris Reed.

Dandizette is a nonbinary interdisciplinary arts and cultural worker who likens their medium as space, whether 2D, 3D, or 4D, and who explores identity, dis/connection, and collective problem solving. Having studied animation at Emily Carr University of Art & Design, they cofounded and lead The James Black Gallery.

Kicking off the festival’s 11 days of multidisciplinary arts events and exhibitions, bumfuzzled monachopsis: innerspace out runs throughout QAF 2023: Queers in Space from June 17 to June 28. The free exhibit will take place at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre Exhibition Hall.

For the full festival lineup, see Stir’s article here.

More information is at queerartsfestival.com.

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