The Seacoast LGBTQ History Project and The Franklin Gallery are thrilled to announce the upcoming Pride art exhibition: (Un)Mask. This exhibit is a celebration of identity, courage, and self-expression that embodies the true spirit of Pride. (Un)Mask will be showcased at The Franklin Gallery throughout the month of August. During Rochester’s Pride Day on Saturday, August 2, the Gallery will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tom Kaufhold, founder of the Seacoast LGBTQ History Project, said (Un)Mask showcases young artists who identify as LGBTQ+ or are allies. The artwork in (Un)Mask celebrates self-acceptance and queer joy in all its forms. Kris Ebbeson, curator of The Franklin Gallery, says, “This is our ninth exhibit with the Seacoast LGBTQ History Project. We are excited to provide a platform for marginalized voices to be seen and heard. Through art, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community.”

For the third consecutive year, NHAA has partnered with NH Outright to organize an art class specifically for LGBTQIA+ youth. As part of this ongoing collaboration, both organizations continue to develop educational programs designed to empower queer teen artists across New Hampshire.

This year’s project features papier-mâché masks. These masks are not meant to hide; they’re meant to reveal. Under the guidance of Cara Cabral, Teaching Artist at NH Outright, and Evelyn Mauchly, art teacher at the Monarch School, each student was encouraged to explore their identities and create a sculptural mask that proudly expresses their authentic self. The resulting works will be exhibited at The Franklin Gallery, offering young voices a platform to take up space and refuse to be erased. Join us in celebrating these brave young artists!

The exhibit will run from Friday, August 1, through Friday, August 29, and is free to view. The Franklin Gallery is located inside Riverstones Custom Framing, open Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Extended hours will be offered on Rochester’s Pride Day, Saturday, August 2, when the Gallery will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, visit the Seacoast NH LGBTQ History Project Facebook page or email seacoastnhlgbthistory@gmail.com.