designboom · Creativity & design

Tim Walker's 'Fairyland' Exhibition Explores Queer History Through Portraiture

Tim Walker's 'Fairyland: Love and Legends' at the National Portrait Gallery features around 250 portraits of queer figures, spanning five decades of activism and identity.

The exhibition showcases Walker's recent work with queer individuals and allies, connecting activism from the 1970s/80s with contemporary voices. The title reclaims 'fairy' as an expression of identity.

Portraits of early activists are presented in a style evoking queer aristocracy. Others include campaigners and cultural figures who have made queer lives visible.

Sitters brought significant objects, like the Silver Moon Women's Bookshop sign, adding personal and cultural context.

A section addresses the HIV/AIDS crisis through portraits of healthcare professionals and musicians, highlighting music's role in activism.

The Rebel Dykes, a post-punk collective, are featured with group portraits and a film reflecting on their community and political work.

The exhibition also explores fashion, drag, and self-expression, ending with queer reinterpretations of fairy tales.

Walker states the exhibition is about placing himself in the queer realm and assuring others they are not alone, emphasizing that difference is power.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.