The Austin LGBT Chamber presents an afternoon of panel discussions on how the queer creative community plays an integral role that the LGBTQ+ community plays in advocating for change while contributing to the creative ecosystem that is so needed in today’s world. Artists, designers, filmmakers and musicians will chat about their work, the current state of Texas and national politics, and how they continue to thrive and prosper throughout.
Panels are open to the public. Space is limited. SXSW badge holders get priority access.
1:15 Queer Representation in Film
This panel discussion will explore the topic of queer representation in film, with a particular focus on how LGBTQ+ characters and storylines are portrayed on screen. The panelists will discuss the importance of representation in media, the progress that has been made in recent years, and the challenges that still exist in achieving full and authentic representation. The panelists will also examine the impact of queer storylines and characters which are being developed through the lens of heteronormativity and how the affects the queer community.
Panelists:
Ramfis Myrthil, filmmaker & founder of Ramfis Productions
Fernando Andrés, Austin-based filmmaker
Lisa “Dash” Donato, Austin-based filmmaker
B Glick, founder of GQue Films
Moderated by
Todd Hogan-Sanchez
Austin LGBT Chamber Of Commerce Arts Committee Chair
President aGLIFF
2:15 The Business of Drag
Drag has evolved from being an underground subculture to a mainstream form of entertainment with a growing fan base and increasing visibility in popular media, not to mention a booming industry. The panel will feature drag performers, Nadine Hughes, Celia Light, Extragrams business owner Kerry Lynn, and will be moderated by World Famous *BOB*. Covering topics such as the economics of drag performance, the role of social media in promoting drag artists and events, the challenges and opportunities faced by drag performers in the industry, the impact of drag on LGBTQ+ representation and activism, and the future of drag as an industry facing all the political upheaval the community is facing today.
Panelists:
Nadine Hughes – Drag Artist, Creative Director
Celia Light – Drag Artist
Kerry Lynn, Owner – Extragrams
World Famous *BOB* – Community
3:15 Advocacy through Art
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the power of art as a tool for LGBTQ advocacy. Our panel of artists, activists, and community leaders will explore the ways in which art has been used to promote LGBTQ rights, raise awareness of LGBTQ issues, and advocate for LGBTQ equality. Our panelists will discuss the different forms of art that have been used to promote LGBTQ advocacy, including visual art, performance art, literature, and music. They will share their personal experiences and insights on how they have used their art to engage and inspire audiences, build community, drive social change, and build a business. Through this discussion, we hope to inspire and empower others to use their own artistic talents to advance LGBTQ advocacy efforts. We also aim to create a space for dialogue and collaboration between artists, activists, and community members interested in supporting LGBTQ rights.
Panelists:
Nakia, Musician/Songwriter/Artist/Actor
Caleb de Casper, Musician/Activist
Ransom Ashley, Artist/Photographer, Owner – Sonofrand
Justin Galicz , Owner, The Little Gay Shop