Mapplethorpe: Look At The Pictures + Save Curzon Soho panel discussion (18)

As part of the campaign to Save Curzon Soho, Curzon are proud to present a special film screening followed by a panel discussion on the impact of recent urban developments on Soho’s LGBT community, inspired by the life and work of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.

Much like Curzon Soho, a number of iconic LGBT social and entertainment venues are either under threat of demolition, or have recently been closed in the name of urban development. In its overview of 1970s New York's gay scene, "Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures" shows the importance of spaces like these to generate and preserve a thriving LGBT cultural context where sexuality and creativity can be expressed freely - and safely.

The panel will respond to the ideas and themes of the film, as we fight to save Soho’s rich and diverse cultures, as well as a significant chunk of the social and political history of London.

Panel members:

- Gavin Butt - Professor of Visual Cultures and Performance at Goldsmiths, University of London
- Ben Walters - Journalist, researcher and campaigner who wrote the application that made the Royal Vauxhall Tavern the UK’s first LGBTQ listed building
- Representatives from Positively UK and Stonewall

Tuesday 3 May 6.15pm, Curzon Soho.

Mapplethorpe: Look At The Pictures is the first definitive, feature length portrait of the controversial American artist Robert Mapplethorpe since his death from AIDS in 1989.

Please note this film is rated 18 ("strong sexualised images, sex references, nudity" - BBFC)

This event is part of Curzon Soho's documentary screening series, #DocDays