St. Petersburg Celebrates Trans and Gender Nonconforming Artists

News Summary

The exhibition ‘trans / clay / body’ in St. Petersburg showcases the talents of nearly 60 trans and gender nonconforming youth artists through ceramic works. Curated by Dakota-Joan Parkinson, the event aims to provide a platform for these artists. The exhibition opens on a Saturday with an opening night celebration featuring speakers, artists, and a potluck, running until April 27. This event not only celebrates artistic expression but also highlights the resilience of the transgender community amid current challenges.

St. Petersburg’s Groundbreaking Exhibition Celebrates Trans and Gender Nonconforming Artists

In a vibrant and heartfelt celebration, St. Petersburg is gearing up for the exciting exhibition titled trans / clay / body. This showcase features the creative talents of nearly 60 trans and gender nonconforming youth artists, bringing their unique stories and expressions to the forefront.

A Labor of Love in Ceramics

Curated by Dakota-Joan Parkinson, an inspiring ceramics instructor at the Morean Center for Clay, the exhibition highlights a range of ceramic works created by young artists. The pieces were born during free ceramics courses and a traditional anagama wood-firing workshop held last year, allowing participants to explore their creativity without the burden of costs associated with art education. That’s right – this isn’t just any regular art showcase; it’s a celebration of community, talent, and identity.

Opening Night Celebrations

Mark your calendars! The exhibition will officially open on a Saturday and remain available for viewing until April 27. To kick things off in style, there’s an opening night celebration planned that promises to be something special. From 5 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy an evening featuring speakers, artists, a lively potluck, and so much more! It’s a perfect opportunity for the community to gather, support one another, and appreciate the incredible talents woven into the clay.

Ceramics as a Pathway to Identity

Dakota-Joan Parkinson, who has a rich background as a microbiologist, turned to ceramics as a way to express her own journey as a transgender artist. When she moved to St. Petersburg for a ceramics residency, she recognized a need to provide free classes specifically tailored to the transgender community, giving participants a platform to connect with their creativity.

Thanks to generous funding from the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Creative Pinellas, numerous participants were able to attend a wood-firing workshop at no cost. Typically a pricey affair, costing between $300 to $700, the workshop allowed almost anyone the chance to explore the artistry of clay. Over three-and-a-half days, working together as a community, participants gathered nine cords of wood, creating an unforgettable experience.

The Art of Shaping Identity

One notable participant, Court Gape, discovered a passion for pottery during this empowering workshop, even though he had never worked with clay before. His artistic journey led to the creation of animal sculptures and a large installation symbolizing his experience with testosterone injections, blending personal stories with a sense of collective resilience. Similarly, fellow artist Nela Lamb showcased whimsical animal sculptures, filling the space with vibrant energy.

A Voice for the Community

Both Gape and Lamb articulated how vital this exhibition is, especially amid current laws in Florida that target transgender individuals. By showcasing these unique works of art, the exhibition stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of trans communities. It not only highlights diversity in expression but also fosters connections and understanding amidst the challenges faced by the transgender community. With each piece crafted from clay, artists channel their identities into art, much like the transformative process of molding clay.

Join the Celebration!

The trans / clay / body exhibition is more than just an artistic showcase; it’s a gathering of stories, struggles, and amazing talent. As the opening night approaches, excitement is building throughout St. Petersburg. If you’re in the area or can make the trip, don’t miss the opportunity to witness this beautiful display of art, love, and community spirit. It promises to be a vibrant celebration, ensuring that the voices of trans and gender nonconforming youth artists are heard loud and clear.

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Additional Resources

• Patch: Clay Works of Trans Students and Artists on Display in St. Petersburg
• Watermark: LGBTQ Artists Shine at 2025 Grammys
• The Weekly Challenger: Afrofuturist Lonnie Holley at MFA
• Wikipedia: LGBT Art
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Art