An LGBTQ+ Valentine’s art pop-up event took place in the Library Social space. All were encouraged to create some heartfelt art using PRIDE stickers. The stickers were created by Ollie Mann and the book was authored by Jessica Kingsley. This event was held as part of LGBTQ+ History Month - an event that encourages us to explore the stories of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history whose stories have been hidden from view.
Valentines Day is traditionally seen as a heteronormative event but this pop-up event was a fun way to challenge that notion and reclaim Valentine's as an event for all romantic relationships and friendships.
Friends Amy and Ariella used the opportunity to use the art station to create collage art to show some love to each other as besties! A key theme was that love is for all and don’t forget to show all your loved ones including LGBTQ+ loved ones, friends and family some love.
MBBS Students Amy and Ariella creating art with markers and PRIDE stickers
And last but not least you can show yourself some love through self-care. Students going between classes used the pop-up stall as a moment to chat with friends and take a moment to explore their creativity.
Audre Lorde, a Black, civil rights activist, writer, lesbian and feminist can be seen as responsible for creating self-care as a revolutionary act for Black women and today's self-care holistic movement benefits from Lorde's concept.
