Featuring costumes and photographs on loan from the Stonewall National Museum and Archives, the exhibition showcases the accomplishments of individuals from the local Suncoast community and from the nation at large, highlighting famous drag personalities like RuPaul and John Waters. It also includes a timeline of the history of drag, created by the Fabulous Arts Foundation, that provides a comprehensive overview of how drag has influenced culture and societies for hundreds of years.
The Fabulous Arts Foundation seeks to foster the arts as a catalyst for social change and healing while amplifying LGBTQ+ people. Their vision is to uplift LGBTQ+ people by fostering emerging artists, while exploring ways to heal through the arts. They seek to create safe spaces within our community, as well as a platform for the LGBQT+ community to be seen and heard.
The Ringling Community Gallery is always free and open to the public. The public exhibition space is located on the ground floor of the museum’s Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Center for Asian Art. Those wishing to visit the exhibition should ask for a Community Gallery wristband at the Visitors Pavilion upon arrival at The Ringling.
The Community Gallery is generously funded by The Community Foundation of Sarasota County.
Image credit: Peter A. Lovello (2008) Outfit worn by RuPaul in the movie “Another Gay Sequel: Gays Gone Wild” Orange Blouse and Jacket. Record #29775 Courtesy of the Stonewall National Museum, Archives & Library.