Michael Freeman

MANNA

Digital photograph, 7 x 5”, 2021

"In the midst of another viral epidemic we see a billboard for MANNA, the 1990s Philadelphia organization still providing meals to HIV-positive people."

— Michael Freeman
 
 
 

Albo Jeavons

Queer Eruptions

Inkjet print on paper, 102 x 40”, 2011

"The years that I spent doing AIDS activist work with ACT UP Philly remain some of my fondest — and proudest — memories."

— Albo Jeavons
 
 
 

MPozi Tolbert (1972-2006)

Act-Up Protest 1-28-92 [sic: 1-30-92] Philadelphia

Silver gelatin print on paper, 12.25 x 8.25”, 1991

AIDS Library of Philadelphia Graphics Collection, William Way LGBT Community Center

"'The basic message is that we're sick to our stomach with our government and are fed up,' said Scott Tucker, a member of Act Up, AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power."

— Philadelphia Inquirer, January 31, 1992
 
 
 

H.D. Ivey

Beat 'em Bullyboyz!!

Scratch board, 14 x 11", 1991

Private collection of David Acosta

"[I]nspired by the confrontation with Police and ACT UP at a demonstration protesting then President Bush's visit to the Bellevue Stratford on September 12th, 1991. At the demonstration, the police reacted violently to the peaceful protesters, clubbing and attacking activists, some of whom received injuries, while others were arrested."

— David Acosta
 
 
 

Jackie Cassell

Act Up Fight Back!

Collage/Mixed media (acrylic paint, gel medium, paste, fabric, stickers, newspaper, photocopied photos) on sketchbook cover, 14.5 x 11", 1990

"This is the original collage on the front of my hardbound sketchbook in art school circa 1989-1992 during the time I became involved with Act Up Philly."

— Jackie Cassell
 
 
 

Natalie Hope McDonald

Days of Rage

Mixed media with ink and oil-based paint on acid-free paper, 16 x 20", 2021

"The impermanent nature of graffiti reminds us of our own mortality. This is ultimately a portrait, a time capsule and a reminder of how power can be cultivated even in tragedy."

— Natalie Hope McDonald
 
 
 
 
 

William Way LGBT Community Center

1315 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
P: 215-732-2220