Curious Histories to uncover LGBTQIA+ stories

A new initiative is set to document and celebrate LGBTQIA+ voices across the North East, preserving personal stories for future generations.

Curious Histories, a project by arts and youth charity Curious Arts, is expanding following a successful pilot in Newcastle. 

This February, participants in County Durham and Sunderland are invited to share their experiences through objects that represent their personal journey. 

These items, along with their owners’ stories, will be archived to create a lasting record of LGBTQIA+ history in the region.

Samuel Allenby, heritage coordinator at Curious Arts, said, “Following a growing interest in LGBTQIA+ heritage and the success of our pilot project, ‘When You Were Me’ in 2024, we’re excited to launch Curious Histories. 

“In the past, LGBTQIA+ stories and history have been less studied and/or recorded. 

“Through events like these, we aim to build awareness and share untold stories for all to see. 

“It’s important to amplify LGBTQIA+ voices and ensure visible histories live on. 

“Together, with members of the community, we’ll preserve stories and photographs through a growing online archive.”

The project is part of a wider programme of events, including LGBTQIA+ heritage tours at The Bowes Museum, ‘Be You at The Bowes’ discussion groups and artistic workshops. 

Eleanor Thirlway, curator of co-production at The Bowes Museum, added: “We’re really excited to work with Curious Arts on this project, as it ties in perfectly with the work we’re doing with our ‘Be You’ group at The Bowes Museum. 

“LGBTQIA+ lives have often been overlooked, and this event is a chance to change that. 

“By bringing in personal objects and sharing stories, we’re creating a digital archive that celebrates individual journeys. 

“It’s also an opportunity to map meaningful moments in Teesdale and create protest banners that speak to each person’s story. 

“We can’t wait to be part of it and help make these voices more visible.” 

Curious Arts is also supporting Pride in Teesdale, an initiative dedicated to supporting young people, individuals and families within the LGBTQIA+ community, with events showcasing rural experiences and creative installations.

The Sunderland activation is part of Culture House Sunderland’s pre-opening programme, with the initiative funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

Leanne Littlewood, Culture House director, added: “We’re very excited to work with Curious Arts to support an LGBTQIA+ digital archive. 

“The event taking place at Keel Square Pavilion will start to bridge a gap of representation in history, ensuring that LGBTQIA+ lives in Sunderland are documented and future generations are able to accurately learn about stories directly from those who lived them, and help us to develop relationships with LGBTQIA+ communities. 

“We can’t wait to see what objects the community in Sunderland bring in to be photographed and preserved online for future. 

“Make sure to also join the friendly Curious Arts team to create your own protest banner and to locate important moments in LGBTQIA+ history of Sunderland on a map. 

“It’s going to be a great day and we’re looking forward to making LGBTQIA+ voices heard.”

Events take place at The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, on February 22 and Keel Square Pavilion, Sunderland, on March 23. Click the links for further information and to book tickets.

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