The Goethe-Institut in Johannesburg hosted a powerful showcase of queer African artists on 21 May to commemorate the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).
Curated by South African filmmaker and author Renaldo Schwarp, the exhibition brought together queer artists and creatives from across Sub-Saharan Africa through film, visual art, live performance, photography and immersive installations.
The programme explored language as both a tool of exclusion and a form of resistance, while creating space for queer African visibility, dialogue and community.
Around 200 guests attended the evening, which featured contributions from artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Mauritius, including Phefumla Queer Collective, Rayanne Chidzvondo, Rachel Sakeus, OUT Moris, Niza Jay, Troye Shannon, Sisipho Madubela, Seth Riley and The Immaculate Angel.
Several short films by directors, including Schwarp as well as Carl Collison, were also screened at the event.
Other partners that made the event possible include the Austrian Cultural Forum, the University of Pretoria (Centre for Human Rights), Friederich-Ebert-Stiftung, Institut Francais, Just Detention Centre, Heinrich-Böll Stiftung and Pro Helvetia.
Check out these photos from an unforgettable night of queer talent, visibility, defiance and joy, captured by photographer Rina Gertzen.
