Karol Radziszewski, a Polish artist and founder of the Queer Archives Institute, is bringing the untold story of LGBTQ+ history to Edinburgh Art Festival. His exhibition centers around ‘Filo’ Magazine, one of the first LGBTQ+ publications in Central and Eastern Europe, established by activist Ryszard Kisiel in the 1980s as a response to communist-era repression of sexual minorities. ‘Filo’ served as a vital platform for discussions about sexuality, creativity, and politics during a time when such conversations were heavily suppressed.
Radziszewski’s show goes beyond simply showcasing ‘Filo.’ He meticulously juxtaposes archival materials from the magazine’s golden era with his own captivating paintings of queer Central and Eastern European historical figures. These paintings, executed in a style reminiscent of Eastern Bloc propaganda portraits, serve to reclaim the historical narrative, centering on the often-overlooked lives and stories of non-heteronormative individuals.
The exhibition is a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of ‘Filo’ and a call to acknowledge the rich and complex history of LGBTQ+ individuals in Central and Eastern Europe. Radziszewski’s work serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating these stories, ensuring that they are not lost to the sands of time.
