Queer Visibility in Chile : when art meets activism

The Queer Museum was established to celebrate the creativity and courage of sexual dissident artists worldwide. The establishment aim to embrace freedom, activism, and generosity, by sharing a collection of LGBTQ+ art with the world. Chile is classified as a Zone 1 country in terms of LGBTQIA+ rights, which means sexual acts between people of the same sex are legal and clear national employment protections exist for lesbian, gay, and bi people. It is why this museum can put itself up on a standard for queer activism through the means of art. The first Chilean museum dedicated to LGBTQI+ art and culture has launched, making history with its pioneering online platform exclusively showcasing and promoting LGBTQ+ artists globally. With a remarkable collection of over 5,000 analog and digital pieces, the museum features artists from Chile, Brazil, Portugal, Spain, the United States, Angola, Mozambique, and ten other countries, with new works added daily. This groundbreaking initiative aims to amplify the profound and daring work of artists from diverse sexualities worldwide. By overcoming the limitations of traditional exhibition spaces, the museum aspires to be a hub where artists and the public can connect and thrive creatively. In partnership with Brazil's Diversa Institute and the "Museu Lusófono da Diversidade Sexual," which encompasses contributions from over 10 countries, the museum seeks to forge alliances with other institutions to share collections, unite efforts, and strategize for the advancement of queer cultural development. In January 2024, The Queer Museum's International Anual Exhibition 2024, occurred at Cookhouse Gallery in London. Organized in collaboration with students of UAL Chelsea School of Arts, this LGBTQIAP+ exhibition featured a selection from The Queer Museum’s collection, pieces by invited artists, and works by UAL students. As many would argue, art has the profound ability to transform the world, a belief they hold dearly. As a leading international LGBTQ+ platform, their dedication extends beyond showcasing a simple collection. They actively support initiatives in aesthetic experimentation, activism, and research groups, striving to create more inclusive spaces within the art community and touch the hearts of individuals globally.