Dates: Mon 19 Aug — Sun 25 Aug

Opening hours: 10am — 5pm

Location: French Institute of Scotland West Parliament Square, EH1 1RN

This exhibition is presented by Edinburgh Art Festival as part of their Civic Programme.

Through A Lavender Lens: Celebrating the Legacy of Scotland’s First LGBTQ+ Book Shop

Forty-two years have passed since Sigrid Nielsen and Bob Orr opened Scotland’s first lesbian and gay book shop, Lavender Menace. This book shop was more than a shop; it was a sanctuary where queer individuals could find literature that reflected their lives and struggles, yet like many independent LGBTQ+ book shops, Lavender Menace by then known as West & Wilde closed in 1997. 20 years later, it reopened as The Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive, preserving the rich history of queer literature and activism in Scotland.

The rebirth of Lavender Menace highlights the ongoing need to protect the legacy of queer history and celebrate it. While Sigrid and Bob are still involved with Lavender Menace, the archive’s heart and soul continues through its many staff and volunteers – and those to come. Join us in celebrating the legacy of Lavender Menace and the individuals who have made its revival possible.

Join us for a preview of the exhibition (and free drinks) with Lavender Menace at the French Institute on 19 August, 6pm—9pm. Register for your free ticket on the EAF website.

Edinburgh Zine Library will also host a pop-up on 21 August, where guests can read their curated pick of zines on all things queer and literary.

This exhibition has been curated by Ellis Clay as part of EAF24’s Civic Programme. Lavender Menace photographed by Jules Lacave-Fontourcy and Zoe Robertson, with a film by Mitchell Morton. With many thanks to Lavender Menace staff and volunteers for their support and involvement within this project.

Accessibility

The exhibition space has level access with four available seats to view the publication, photography, and film. If you have any questions about access or specific access requests, please contact EAF.