Cliff Notes
Each week, our regional Cliff Notes columnists Fox Whitney, Alitzah Oros, Melika Sebihi, and Kaya Noteboom pick the most exciting events and exhibitions on the West Coast.
A.K. Burns: What is Perverse is Liquid
Henry Art Gallery, Seattle, WA
September 7, 2024 to May 4, 2025
Interdisciplinary artist A.K. Burns’ work at the Henry surprised me with its humor and queer dystopian aesthetic. I am new to learning of Burn’s work but it seems they have close ties with the dance community I am a part of. It tickled me to see some of my favorite dance artists from past collaborations like dance artist keyon gaskin (genius in a video that showcased them wearing not much more than heels and climbing down shitty apartment building staircases taking out bags of garbage in the most spectacular way) and interdisciplinary artist Will Rawls jazzily making his way through what appeared to be a massive computer server room wearing a skeleton onesie, gently gyrating through a technological landscape without context or worry.
Both Rawls and gaskin appeared in other projections in the exhibition featuring Burns’s apocalyptic visions of living room interiors, natural landscapes, trash heaps, and office spaces. This exhibit is eerie in its weirding of everyday objects and textures like living room sofa sets and office supplies, everything takes on a confusing queer significance because of the way the artists involved interact with each other and the objects within in revelatory and banal ways. This exhibit is so full of ideas and possibilities I plan to go see it again. I’m sure it’ll be a whole new experience.
Reflection: What art can you challenge yourself to see even though you may not understand it fully but know you’ll appreciate it in 2025?
T4T: All Trans & Non-Binary Drag Show
Kremwerk, Seattle, WA
January 11, 2025
T4T is Seattle’s longest-running trans and non-binary produced drag show offering a monthly space for trans connection and celebration. Hosted by Bee’Uh BombChelle (one of Seattle’s best drag hostesses, and always ready with a lil Jennifer Coolidge impersonation), Euphoria will feature the drag talents of Solana Solstice, Peach, and Bruno Baewatch, all regulars on the T4T stage. Additional performers Arlo Moon (stage gremlin) and Rose Gold (go-go dancer) will also be there working hard to keep the tips flowing and the energy going for the first T4T of 2025. This year T4T is trying out a cabaret format including live vocalist Optimistic Apocalyptic as a musical guest artist.
One of the cool parts of going to T4T is to buy local (and talk to!) trans vendors. Mingling on the patio and talking with show goers is a great way to make friends and support artists. This month’s vendor is Smash the Box, a local Latinx owned pop up. The most legendary part of T4T is producer Bee’Uh BombChelle’s commitment to uplifting local trans creatives of all kinds. Get ready to bask in the gender euphoria surrounded by people who understand the necessity of trans led spaces in 2025 and beyond.
Reflection: How can we make sure trans leaders, creatives and audiences are celebrated and supported in the ways they need?