MEAA is proud to announce its partnership with Queer China UK and the launch of Queerating a community-led participatory project that will expand LGBTQIA+ programming across the Museum in 2027.
Queerating is free creative project led by Queer China UK (QCU) and the Museum of East Asian Art (MEAA) in Bath, that invites participants to reinterpret the Museum’s collection and the city of Bath through a queer ESEA lens.
CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS
We’re looking for 8–10 self-identified LGBTQIA+ people of East and Southeast Asian heritage to take part. Through workshops and activities led by QCU, you’ll explore queer ESEA narratives in the City of Bath and the Museum’s collection. The work you create will become an exhibition at MEAA in May 2027, which you’ll help to curate.
You will:
● Unlock your creativity through workshops and activities led by QCU
● Take part in a tour of Bath to explore queer histories in the City
● Handle and engage with objects from the Museum’s collection
● Curate a museum exhibition as a collective
You don’t need any previous creative or curating experience to take part. We’re open to applicants at all levels, all we need is your enthusiasm and curiosity. You’ll be supported by QCU and MEAA every step of the way!
Project details:
● Project takes place between September 2026 – May 2027.
● You must be 18+ to take part.
● No prior experience needed.
● Workshops will take place in-person in Bath, with extra meetings/social events online.
● Free to take part, with financial support for travel.
APPLY ONLINE
Complete the online Queerating application form.
Applications to take part in Queerating are open Monday 6 July 2026 and close on Monday 31 August 2026 at midday.
ACCESSIBLE APPLICATIONS
We want to make our application process as accessible as possible. We welcome applications in alternative formats, including video or audio recordings. Please contact us at queerating@meaa.org.uk to discuss the best way for you to apply. Queerating Screen readable application form
Still have a question about the project?
Read our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) or email your question to queerating@meaa.org.uk
The word ‘queer’
MEAA recognises that the word ‘queer’ has a complex and potentially triggering history for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and that it is still viewed by some as a slur. At MEAA, we are mindful of this history and understand that some people may find this language offensive or uncomfortable.
Our choice to use the word ‘queer’ reflects an effort to use language that encompasses a broad spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities. This is reflected in the widespread use of the term within parts of the LGBTQIA+ community, academia, and national and local museum programming.
In this context, the word ‘queer’ is intended to be inclusive. However, we recognise that it may not reflect everyone’s experience, identity, or preferred language.