Radical Queer Library: Centering queer black, brown and indigenous storytellers

Extending the spirit of the vogueing dance workshop at MUSEION Bolzano, the Radical Queer Library emerges as a spatial intervention celebrating the creative expressions of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC artists. A distinct graphic identity was crafted to promote the project and enhance the visibility of the space.

Radical Queer Library is a project developed by students of the Faculty of Design and Art of the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano in collaboration with the MUSEION Art Club. For two weeks, the MUSEION Casa Atelier Haus transforms into a colourful, cosy living room open to the public. Visitors can immerse themselves in music, art and literature by queer black, brown and indigenous artists.

The process of developing the graphic identity necessitated space and urgency for me to question my default perspectives and personal knowledge as influenced by a predominantly white European creative discourse. I began to obsessively question my assumptions and choices, all so that form could follow message, not function.

The identity highlights the display typeface Martin, a non-violent typeface inspired by remnants of the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Strike. The foundry behind it, Vocal Type Co., works to diversify the design industry, promote the voices of marginalised creatives and tell the stories of the people they serve. Eight editions of the poster, each measuring 310mm by 430mm, are risograph printed on recycled grey stock in flat gold, black and white.