AN art and sound exhibition created by Kerry LGBTQ+ adults and young people will launch on Saturday, March 2 at 1pm in Tralee Library.

The show documents the experience of being LGBTQ+ in Kerry today and explores how it fits into the broader theme of personal identity.

The show will be opened by Kerry County Councillor, Toirѐasa Ferris and the launch will include an interactive performance piece by musicians Martin Scharer, Teresa Galvin and Jade ‘O Connor.

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The show is funded by CYPSC (Children and Young People’s Services Committee) with the intention of supporting LGBTQ+ Young People.  The young people, most of whom attend KDYS youth centre, wrote a short phrase on a canvas documenting a snapshot of their experience.

“It is very important for them to they feel valued and included in their communities,”  says Claire O Toole, Co-ordinator of Kerry CYPSC,  “and this gives them a opportunity to express themselves.”

“What is really interesting about the show is the dialogue between the young people and the adults,” says the show’s Curator Muiríosa Murphy.  “Being LGBTQ+ is just a small part of a much broader identity which includes family life, work, hobbies and friends for most of the adults.”

Adults from the LGBTQ+ community in Kerry recorded short sound pieces which was compiled and edited by Creative Facilitator Rena Blake.  “I was really touched by the enthusiastic and positive responses of the adults who recorded sound pieces,” said Rena.  “They were all so interested in giving back and being able to share some of the wisdom they gained over their life journeys.”