Dark Lanterns

David Shenton is an artist who lives in Norwich and whose work often reflects his lifelong support and campaigning for LGBTQIA+ issues.

Hanging in the entrance lobby of the Gallery are twelve 'lanterns' made from fabric, card and postcards. As a collection they are a colourful and attractive display.

But, says David, "The messages on the lanterns are not beautiful, nor peaceful."

They record instances of queer hate crime over the past 100 years, describing brutality, assassinations, discrimination and suicides.

David adds, "A couple of the lanterns offer hope and encouragement to my community to stay strong in the face of these iniquities."

Please be aware that some of the detail on the lanterns references violent incidents, discrimination and suicide.