Artists have used every medium imaginable to explore themes of gender and sexuality. The existence of radically different interpretations means the spectrum of gender and sexuality is limitless and constantly evolving. Reaching beyond the conventions of mainstream masculinity and femininity, and illuminating gender non-conformity in the past, the collections reveal histories of sex and spirituality, prejudice and pride, and the fight for visibility and equality.
The Museum’s LGBTQ Working Group unearths previously hidden or unknown LGBTQ histories in the collections and aims to facilitate understanding of LGBTQ identities and histories through research, events, discussion and debate.
Based on the iconic rainbow flag from 1978, the redesign celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ community and calls for a more inclusive society.
Discover stories of diverse gender and sexual identities across time, place and culture
Cups, pads or underwear? Menstrual care products have been marketed and manufactured since the 19th century
Celebrating the activists, deities, leaders and warriors in our collections
Sumptuous and subversive fashions which disregard gender
"I have one aim – the grotesque. If I am not grotesque, I am nothing"
Find out how a knitted pink hat became a global symbol of female solidarity
Discover hidden female histories in our collection
Look closely to discover a hidden message of gay love engraved on this wine glass
Hear how costume maker Sonja Harms crafts alternative identities through clothing
Listen in as we turn the pages of iconic feminist magazines
From Madame de Pompadour to Mary Cassatt – discover women working in print from the 1700s – 1930s
Curator Rosalind McKever explores fashion, gender and identity in Virgina Woolf’s novel 'Orlando'.
Sustainable, ethical fashion, "for people who dream in colour"
Harris Reed showcased gender-fluid highlights from his collections
