Optimism in Activism:
Conversations with artists on Keith Haring, Queerness and the State of the World
Across Pride Month, Collingwood Yards and Archer Magazine present a series of in-conversation events with Queer artists working with representations of identity, raising critical questions, and creating new narratives.
Collingwood Yards is home to the iconic Keith Haring Mural. Created in 1984, this mural is the only surviving work of Haring’s in Australia, and one of very few works internationally. Haring’s own activism, founded on a belief in the power of people to change the world, and his optimism – visually bold, energetic and playful – continues to inspire the creative community in Collingwood Yards and beyond. This series is dedicated to his legacy and the enduring spirit of positivity in activism that he leaves with us.
Collingwood Yards are the proud caretakers and conservators of The Keith Haring Mural. We ask our community to assist us in this important work by making a donation, big or small, to the Keith Haring Mural Fund.
Keith Haring, Art and Social Optimism for Change
With Emil Canita, Darcy Enoki McConnell, Chris Parkinson, and Lauren O’Dwyer, moderated by Amy Middleton followed by a performance from The Huxleys
Thursday, 12 June
Forty-one years ago, Keith Haring painted a mural on the side of a school building in Johnston St, Collingwood. That school building is now Collingwood Yards, and Haring’s mural has since become a stirring and lively homage to his legacy of art, activism and influence.
Join us for a panel discussion that will explore art and social optimism as it pertains to Haring’s ongoing legacy and spirit. What can we learn from Haring’s ability to spark public conversation, and how is artistic expression still being utilised today to enact social change? Where do public art and activism intersect, and how can we wield their overlapping power?
Trailblazed: Transgender Conversations Across Generations
With Rex Letoa-Paget and Latoya Hoeg
Thursday, 19 June
Through intergenerational connection and storytelling, this panel aims to explore trans experiences across time – where histories overlap and diverge, where knowledge is passed and revitalised. This panel will allow two trans people, a younger and an older person, to share their learnings, experiences and stories to continue fostering a rich interconnected trans community.
TBA
Thursday, 26 June
