Queer(ing) art, curation and collaboration

Abstract

This article serves as an introduction to this Special Issue of Art & the Public Sphere on the topics of Queer(ing) art, curation and collaboration. The overall aim of this issue is to explore current trends in queer art, curatorial practice and forms of collaboration. The articles in this issue draw on international perspectives that provide the reader with global approaches to the topics in question. The following editorial is in three parts, the first explores a range of definitions or (un)definitions of queer and queering. Drawing on key theorists to provide context for their usage, we must preface that these definitions are by no means exhaustive but are illustrative of the type of writing available (although authors might also offer their own definition). The second part of the editorial explores a small selection of examples and approaches to queer art, curation and collaboration that we identify as significant. Again, this is not a full list of queer practice ongoing globally, but a small selection of case studies that act as examples that are pertinent to us. The final section of the editorial functions as a question and answer/interview between academic Dr Chris Green and project producer Dominic Bilton about Bilton’s recent curatorial project (Un)Defining Queer, an exhibition held at the Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester throughout 2023.