Rubbish Sex
“RUBBISH SEX” An artistic intervention exploring the intersection of Queerness and pollution.
The project begins as a performative intervention where anonymous queer and allied individuals don camp, space litter-picker costumes, embarking on a mission to clear up litter at local cruising sites. Shrouded in anonymity, this not only addresses the immediate issue of litter but also serves as a symbolic act, challenging societal norms, and addressing the environmental consequences of traditional queer spaces.
The aftermath of the performance takes the form of a citywide exhibition. Images of the collected litter are to be printed on a large scale and displayed on prominent landmarks around the city center such as the library and town hall.
This public exhibition becomes a visual reminder, dissuading individuals from littering, and engages the audience in a conversation about environmental responsibility and the challenges faced by the queer community.
By shedding light on the overlapping problems of our environmental impact and Queer spaces, “RUBBISH SEX” serves as a catalyst for crucial conversations. It invites audiences to contemplate the societal structures that contribute to these challenges, sparking discussions on the need for inclusivity and environmental mindfulness. The project becomes a forum for dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities inherent in the intersection of queerness and environmental concerns. It allows space for questions about how these impacts are often a result of a cis-heteronormative society, pushing queer individuals to pursue activities in unconventional spaces. The project aims to unravel the layers of this by bringing forth a nuanced exploration of the relationships between societal expectations, queer expression, and environmental responsibility.
The initial performance becomes a symbolic expression. The citywide exhibition, stands as a public statement urging reflection on personal actions and societal norms.
Artist commission + presentation, SCHEMARUIM, Stryx JQ - Birmingham, June.
