London – Described as an archive dedicated to dyke, lesbian, Trans, non-binary and gender-non-conforming communities, HÄN is binding London’s queer scene with its rich history.
The project encompasses a digital archive, publishing, art and community events, seeing the role of an ‘archive’ as something the queer community can actively contribute to through their existence. ‘Archives are a living, breathing strategy,’ says creative director and curator Ella Boucht, who conceived the project from hours spent researching LGBTQ+ history and coming across gaps in accessible resources.
Operating as a tool to combat erasure of histories and celebrate queer joy, there is a major focus on the creativity of queer communities, and it’s for this reason HÄN is marking its launch with a limited-edition publication that compiles stories, images, poems and art all exploring the concept of ‘queerness as shapeshifting’, and serving as a bridge that connects the queer past with queer futures.
By framing the understanding of queer history as a form of community care, HÄN is just one of new generation of voices championing a more accessible and celebratory Queer Care Market.
Strategic opportunity
There is a vital need for better access to queer history. Consider how archives like HÄN could form part of future education systems, as new generations call for a great rewriting of history books