Full Breakdown
Art Installation Highlights Challenges Faced by Trans Youth
2/18/2026, 9:51:53 PM
Overview of the Exhibition
The "Under Our Skin" exhibition at the Brixton Tate Library in London features a striking art installation titled "Protect the Children," created by Marty Davies, the founder of Trans+ History Week. This piece, composed of hundreds of children's pencil erasers, forms the transgender Pride flag and is part of a broader commentary on the current challenges faced by trans youth. The exhibition is free to visit until February 26, 2025.
Core Message of "Protect the Children"
Davies created "Protect the Children" in response to the UK government's updated relationships, sex, and health education (RSHE) guidance, which discourages educators from endorsing any particular view on transgender identities. Davies described this approach as a "gaslighting tactic" that threatens the rights of trans youth. The installation serves as a metaphor for the fragility of these rights, with Davies stating, “You can’t rub us out of reality. We’ve always been here.”
Artistic Intent and Community Impact
Davies emphasizes that the installation reflects not only the specific struggles of trans youth but also the broader societal neglect of all adolescents. The use of erasers, a common school item, symbolizes how young people are often overlooked. Davies noted, “There are many mini stories playing out in the interactions of the erasers,” representing personal narratives and the collective experiences of trans individuals facing discrimination.
Curatorial Vision and Audience Engagement
Xavier White, the exhibition's curator, aims to create an accessible and engaging environment that fosters empathy and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues. He believes that art can bridge gaps in understanding, stating, “I challenge anyone to walk around Under Our Skin and come away not having learnt something new about LGBTQ+ life.” White's vision includes addressing complex topics such as bullying and identity through engaging artistic expressions.
Criticism of Current Policies
Critics, including Davies, argue that the current educational policies prioritize parental rights over the self-determination of young people. Davies remarked, “An overemphasis on parental rights will, of course, distance the conversation away from a young person’s own right to self-determination.” This perspective highlights the ongoing debate about the role of parents in discussions surrounding gender identity and healthcare decisions for trans youth.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You can’t rub us out of reality. We’ve always been here.” — Marty Davies, Artist
- “An overemphasis on parental rights will, of course, distance the conversation away from a young person’s own right to self-determination.” — Marty Davies, Artist
- “I challenge anyone to walk around Under Our Skin and come away not having learnt something new about LGBTQ+ life, or developed a greater empathy for our community.” — Xavier White, Curator
Conclusion
"Under Our Skin" and its centerpiece, "Protect the Children," serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by trans youth in contemporary society. The exhibition not only highlights the specific issues of trans rights but also invites a broader conversation about the experiences of all young people. As the exhibition continues until February 26, 2025, it aims to educate and foster empathy among its visitors, encouraging a more inclusive dialogue around LGBTQ+ identities.
