Macedon Ranges Accessible Arts Inc. is excited to announce that submissions are now open for the 2025 Queerthentic exhibition – a regional LGBTQIA+ art prize celebrating diversity, authenticity, and artistic expression.
Now in its third year, Queerthentic 2025 will be held at The Old Auction House in Kyneton from 1 – 26 May 2025, with over $2,000 in prizes to be won. This year, the exhibition has shifted to coincide with IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia), with a celebration event on Saturday 17 May 2025.
Queerthentic provides a dedicated platform for LGBTQIA+ artists aged 16+ from all backgrounds, mediums, and levels of experience to share their work in a supportive and inclusive environment. Queerthentic aims to amplify underrepresented voices, foster connections, and create a space where artists can express themselves freely – without the pressure to conform to mainstream expectations.
In the current political climate, living rurally as a queer person can be even more challenging. The isolation, lack of representation, and increasing hostility toward LGBTQIA+ communities make inclusive events like Queerthentic not just important, but essential.
Providing visible, welcoming spaces for queer expression and connection is imperative for mental health and wellbeing. Queerthentic is more than just an exhibition – it’s a statement of resilience, community, and the power of art to foster belonging.
Let’s make Queerthentic 2025 a powerful and vibrant reflection of our community’s stories!
Submissions for Queerthentic 2025 are now open and close on Sunday 20 April. For more information, submission guidelines and to apply, visit: www.mraai.org.au for details.
Image: Works by Queerthentic 2024 winner, Alistaire Fowler (supplied)