86:26: LGBTQ+ Film, Heritage and Archive.

Developed through the In the Margins of the Frame archival research residency, 86:26 sees CJ De Barra, founder of the Notts Queer History Archive, bring together film, photography and archival material to explore Nottingham’s queer history, nightlife, activism and local industry.

Screening the films A Boy Called Mary and More Than a Journey, the exhibition uncovers connections between queer screen histories and the Midlands. These sit alongside objects from BACKLIT’s Alfred House archive, including underwear advertisements produced by Samuel Morley, whose former hosiery factory is now home to the gallery.

The exhibition also includes photographs by Fin Serck-Hanssen documenting Divine performing at Nottingham’s Part Two nightclub during the early 1980s.

Together, these materials reveal how queer histories can be found across film, grassroots collections and everyday objects.

Co-curated by CJ De Barra and Jazz Singh Swali

Exhibition Preview (booking required):

Date: Monday 24 August 18:00 – 20:00
RSVP: Click here to RSVP on Eventbrite

Film Screenings and Conversations

More Than a Journey

Date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
Time: 18:00 - 20:00
Click here to RSVP on Eventbrite

A Boy Called Mary

Date: Wednesday 26 August 2026
Time: 18:00 - 20:00
Click here to RSVP on Eventbrite

Exhibition Continues:

Dates: 25 – 30 August
Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Times: 12:00 – 16:00
No need to book

Location:

Main Gallery, Second Floor
BACKLIT, Alfred House, Ashley Street, Nottingham, NG3 1JG

Click here for directions and information on access. If you have any questions on access, please email [email protected]. We will be happy to help.

Access Information

Step-free access: Available via Alfred Street and via a tarmac ramp to the lower ground floor and Project Gallery.
Lift access: Our staff-operated lift is currently accessible from Ashley Street only. If you require lift access, please email [email protected] in advance or use the intercom when you arrive so that a member of staff can assist you.
Accessible parking: Limited parking is available by arrangement. To book parking, please call 0115 837 2426 or email [email protected].
Toilets: All toilets are gender neutral. Please note that none currently have wide-access doors, although we are actively working to improve this next year.
Assistance dogs: Guide and hearing dogs are welcome throughout the building.
Need more information? If you have any questions or access requirements before your visit, please get in touch—we're happy to help.