"Smalltown Boy" is an art exhibition and rave to celebrate the song by Bronski Beat on it's 40th anniversary. The exhibition will launch in Glasgow on 23rd August 2024 at SWG3. The project is a dark yet euphoric tale that delves deep into the experience of LGBTQ+ individuals during a time marked by homophobia and oppressive social norms.
Against the backdrop of Thatcherism and a conservative government, Smalltown Boy chronicles the journey of a queer individual forced to leave their hometown due to prejudice and discrimination. Through a diverse range of artistic mediums including photography, painting, sculpture, and a live rave installation, this exhibition presents a show of freedom and acceptance.Rather than offering a conventional account of queer art, Smalltown Boy adopts a personal and emotive approach. It invites viewers to reflect on the narrative of a smalltown boy navigating the complexities of identity and belonging in a hostile environment.
Central to the exhibition is collaboration. Artists taking part include Scottish artist & designer Charles Jeffrey, Irish Sculptor James Horan, Poetry from London poet Barney Ashton-Bullock and fine art photography from Scottish / Filipino artist Csian Canave.
On the 40th Anniversary of The Smalltown Boy video we include the original photographs of Bronski Beat from Steve Rapport, which have been painted over from Scottish artist Joe Henry, adding a layer of colour and nostalgia.
The exhibition will launch at SWG3 Acid Bar on Friday 23rd August at 6pm. Live DJ performance on the night from Boys Shorts, Bonzai Bonner and Bosco.
Gallery
Bronski Beat Innit
Image courtesy of Joe Henry & Steve Rapport
Smalltown Boy OG
Image courtesy of Joe Henry & Steve Rapport
Chris Boy 1
Image courtesy of Csian Canave
Chris Boy 2
Image courtesy of Csian Canave
Chris Boy 3
Image courtesy of Csian Canave
Andy Bell (Erasure)
Image courtesy of Csian Canave
Smalltown Boy Box
Image courtesy of James Horan
Smalltown Boy Sculpture
Image courtesy of James Horan
Smalltown Boy Cast
Image courtesy of James Horan