BREAKING THE STIGMA THROUGH ART: STUDENT-CURATED HERE AND QUEER SHOW RETURNS
San Rafael, CA – May 29, 2025 – Youth in Arts is proud to present the Here and Queer: LGBTQIA+ Pride Month Spotlight Show, a groundbreaking exhibition curated by a passionate local student, Eva Hellmold. The exhibition will be on view at the YIA Gallery in the Downtown San Rafael Arts District from June 6 to June 27, 2025, with a public opening reception scheduled on Friday, June 6 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
This year’s theme, Breaking the Stigma Through Art, aligns with Hellmold’s ongoing campaign, Break the Stigma (Rooted in Pride, We Bloom), which focuses on mental health within the LGBTQIA+ community. Breaking the STIGMA stands for: Support, Talk, Include, Grow, Mobilize, and Advocate. The Here & Queer showcase will provide a platform for young artists to share their voices, challenge stigma, and celebrate queer identity through creative expression.
“As an artist myself, I find myself turning to paper and pencil to express my emotions and thoughts,” said the student curator, Eva. “I truly think this opportunity will help our community recognize the queer struggle and simultaneously uplift young queer artists.”
The exhibition features a dynamic range of artwork and creative writing pieces, from young, queer artists throughout Marin County. Each artwork offers a unique glimpse into the lived experiences and identities of students in the local queer community.
“Youth in Arts is honored to host the Here and Queer spotlight show, a powerful testament to the resilience, creativity, and courage of young LGBTQIA+ artists,” states Taylor Buttrey, Executive Director of Youth in Arts. “These artists are not only breaking down barriers – they’re building a more inclusive and compassionate world. We’re thrilled to be able to highlight these talented artists, especially during PRIDE month. Ensuring that all young people, regardless of background or ability, have access to meaningful, empowering arts experiences is central to our mission.”
The Here and Queer Spotlight Show promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring exhibition that highlights the importance of representation, acceptance, and celebration of LGBTQIA+ voices in the arts.
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