The GLO Center’s Queer Artists Showcase returns for its sixth year in 2024 with two different opportunities for the public to see the work of about 10 Springfield-area artists.
The showcase itself is a ticketed event that starts at 6 p.m. on March 15. A free QAS Open House is set for 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 16. Both events will be held at the GLO Center, on historic Commercial Street.
The event on March 15 will feature art, live music and some news from GLO, the oldest operating LGBTQ+ center in Missouri and the only LGBTQ+ center in southwest Missouri.
“The GLO Center is currently planning to make two announcements the evening of the event with new opportunities for artists and new ways to support the LGBTQ+ community,” Aaron Schekorra, the center’s new executive director, said in an email. His first day on the job was Jan. 2.
‘Art is for everyone, so we wanted to make sure that everyone could enjoy it'
The Queer Artists Showcase debuted in February 2019. It’s a celebration of queer art, representation and culture as well as a fundraiser for the GLO Center.
Schekorra was concerned the fundraising element might be a barrier for some people.
“When I looked at this year’s event and how much we hoped to raise, I did not like the idea of pricing out so many people in our community who can’t afford a $50-$60 ticket,” he said. “That’s why we added the QAS Open House. The afternoon after the showcase, the art will still be on display and will be free to view.
“There won’t be any formal program and the artists may not all be there to answer questions about their work, but at least the art isn’t trapped behind a paywall. Art is for everyone, so we wanted to make sure that everyone could enjoy it.”
Breaking down barriers for LGBTQ+ artists
The Queer Artists Showcase, which was last held in May 2023, is designed to be a platform for LGBTQ+ artists to express themselves authentically, share their experiences and challenge societal norms.
“It provides visibility and representation, fostering a sense of community and belonging,” Schekorra said. “This means showcasing themselves or their work in a way they may not be allowed to or comfortable with in other settings.”
It also breaks down barriers for the artists, which can include discrimination, a lack of opportunities and censorship. Access to art can also be limited due to economic disparities, lack of inclusive spaces and systemic barriers, Schekorra said.
“Locally, thankfully, my impression is that these barriers are fewer because of the fantastic local art community in Springfield — and organizations like the Springfield Art Museum — at least for lesbian, gay and bisexual artists,” he added. “Folks in the local transgender community have also created many of their own events and opportunities to showcase their art.”
Tickets for Queer Artists Showcase on sale now
While the early bird window has closed, tickets are still available for the March 15 showcase. They’re $60 each and are available on the GLO Center's website.
Performing at the Queer Artists Showcase is cellist Emilia Stauffer, who performs with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. Stauffer is a longtime supporter and volunteer with the GLO Center and various LGBTQ+ organizations and causes.
“Don't miss your chance to be part of an exclusive evening that celebrates art, music and the vibrant spirit of our queer community,” the GLO Center’s website reads. “This is the premier event in the Queer Artist Showcase series where you can immerse yourself in local art while indulging in a glass of wine.”
Artist lineup to be finalized March 1
This year’s judges are Sean FitzGibbons, executive director of the History Museum on the Square, and Joshua Best, the Springfield Art Museum’s affairs officer for audience development.
Schekorra said about two dozen artists have already applied. Categories include drawn work, painting, sculpture, fiber and photography.
“We accepted applications from several preset categories, but we allowed people to apply in an ‘Other’ category and have had at least one person do so,” he said.
GLO Center still looking for showcase sponsors
Sponsorships for the Queer Artists Showcase are still available. The deadline is March 1. Sponsorships range in price from $250-$1,000 and include tickets to the March 15 showcase. More information is available by emailing Schekorra at aaron@glocenter.org.
Want to go?
What: The GLO Center’s Queer Artists Showcase and Open House
When: The Queer Artists Showcase starts at 6 p.m. March 15; the Open House is 11 a.m.-3 p.m. March 16
Where: The GLO Center, 518 E. Commercial St., Springfield
Tickets: $50, available online; admission to the QAS Open House is free
For more information: Visit the GLO Center’s website or follow them on Facebook
