As the LGBTQ+ community prepares to celebrate Newcastle Pride 2025 and the city's first-ever Pride Fringe Festival, three remarkable artists have been selected to showcase their work, bringing the theme of "Unapologetically Visible" to life. Sculptor Lady Kitt and fashion designers Christopher Niari and Sam Barley have each received a £2,500 development grant to create impactful and thought-provoking pieces that reflect the resilience and vibrancy of the queer community.

Lady Kitt, known for her thought-provoking sculptures, has been deeply inspired by the theme of "Unapologetically Visible." For her, it signifies having "the support, resources, care, and community to remain visible even in the current climate." With the funding, Lady Kitt plans to run workshops for local people, focusing on how to stay visible and resilient in challenging times. These workshops will not only foster a sense of community but also provide a platform for attendees to share their ideas, which will be woven together to create a unique installation. "I hope this installation offers a space for rest, connection, and contemplation at this year's Newcastle Pride celebration," Lady Kitt said.

The grant will also allow Lady Kitt to continue her research into how art can reduce stress for marginalized communities. Her work aims to create safe spaces where individuals can find solace and connection, emphasizing the importance of visibility and community support in fostering mental and emotional well-being. Through her installation, Lady Kitt hopes to inspire and empower the LGBTQ+ community, encouraging them to remain unapologetically visible in a world that often seeks to marginalize them.

Christopher Niari and Sam Barley, known for their bold and custom fashion designs for drag artists, are equally excited about their upcoming projects. Their work often celebrates the unique and vibrant personalities of the LGBTQ+ community, and this commission is no exception. Niari and Barley plan to use the grant to create new, eye-catching designs that will be unveiled during the Pride Fringe Festival. "We really hope to put a spotlight directly on the talent within the fashion and design community within north-east England and really champion the queer excellence that runs deeply through it," Niari said.

Their designs will not only showcase the creativity and talent of the local fashion community but also highlight the importance of self-expression and individuality within the LGBTQ+ community. By creating custom pieces that reflect the diversity and resilience of queer individuals, Niari and Barley aim to celebrate the beauty and strength of being unapologetically visible.

In addition to the fully funded projects, three artists received Research and Development Get Ready grants to develop their own work. Poet Amy Langdown, singer-songwriter Malik Abdul, and filmmaker EJ Raymond each received these grants, allowing them to explore and expand their artistic visions. These grants provide a crucial opportunity for emerging artists to develop their ideas and contribute to the rich tapestry of queer art and culture.

The commissions were organized by Northern Pride in partnership with Creative Central NCL and Curious Arts, highlighting the importance of collaboration and community support in fostering artistic expression. These partnerships ensure that local talent is recognized and celebrated, providing a platform for artists to share their unique perspectives and experiences.

Newcastle Pride, taking place on 19 and 20 July, promises to be a vibrant and inclusive celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. With the addition of the Pride Fringe Festival, the event offers a diverse range of activities, performances, and installations that reflect the rich and varied experiences of queer individuals. The theme of "Unapologetically Visible" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility, resilience, and community support in the face of adversity.

As Lady Kitt, Christopher Niari, and Sam Barley prepare to showcase their work, they bring with them a deep commitment to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and its rich cultural heritage. Their projects, funded by the development grants, will not only provide a platform for local talent but also create meaningful and impactful experiences for festival-goers. Through their art, they aim to inspire, empower, and connect, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among all who attend.

Newcastle Pride 2025 and the Pride Fringe Festival are set to be landmark events that celebrate the resilience, creativity, and vibrancy of the LGBTQ+ community. The selected artists, with their unique and powerful projects, will contribute to a rich and diverse celebration that honors the theme of "Unapologetically Visible." As the community comes together to celebrate, these artists will remind us of the importance of visibility, self-expression, and community support in fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world.