Interview with LGBTQ Trailblazer Dylan Kerr Challenging the Social Norms of Today’s Society.
As part of our Pride Series, we had a wonderful chat with LGBTQ Trailblazer Dylan Kerr around topics of Expression, Nightlife and Being naked.
Firstly, let’s start off with the basics, Whats age are you? What are you studying? and Where did you grow up? Dylan Kerr. 20. I’m about to start Fashion and textiles in NCAD. I grew up on a dairy farm in Co. Laois.
How did you find expressing yourself growing up?
I only really started expressing myself and my style when I moved to Dublin last year, as I grew up in a small town and then attended boarding school so there wasn’t much room for self-expression.
When did you move to Dublin?
I moved up to Dublin almost two years ago to start my studies in Trinity College, I was studying the History of Art and Architecture with French, but have since left that course and am transferring into NCAD after my academic year out.
Were you surprised when you saw The George Vandalism? Do you think Dublin is becoming more progressive?
I was angry and upset to see it, but not too surprised, homophobia is still rampant in today’s society. Which is mad to think of in 2017. I think that Dublin is becoming more progressive, slowly but surely, but then some things happen that make you feel like you are taking five steps back. In terms of door policies in nightclubs, I feel like we are stuck in the Middle Ages.
How would you describe your experience with Dublin nightlife?
My biggest problem with Dublin nightlife has to do with bouncers. I have been refused entry for wearing outfits that I feel comfortable in, multiple times. I have been laughed at by bouncers, told I was messed up in the head, asked if I was a boy or a girl. I’m sick and tired of it. Bouncers shouldn’t be allowed speak to people like this.
Can you tell me the idea/Inspiration behind Pilly Willy?
Pilly Willy was an exhibition consisting of Queer rave ephemera from before the decriminalization of homosexuality and a selection of new works made in response to them.
How did you choose the art for the event? Who was part of the project?
Well, the rave flyers came from Tonie Walsh’s archive, Tonie is a DJ, LGBTQ activist and founder of the Irish Queer Archive. The exhibition was curated by John Gillen, and some of the artists who made new works included Jennifer Mehigan, Donal Talbot, Anja Maye, Oscar Torrans, Mel Keane, myself and many others.
Tell us about PUSSYS and how that came about?
The core pussys group properly got to know each other just over a year ago on Inis Oirr. John, Anja, James, Donal, Michael and I. We instantly clicked and bonded over the fact that we were all freaks who grew up in small towns and decided that we should do something together.
You seem to be interested in so many things, what else do you love to do?
I have lots of different interests because I get bored so easily, so constantly take up new things. I am classically trained in flute, piano, and voice but I specialize in Sean-nós singing. I also love cooking, photography, dancing, knitting.
This is sometimes a stressful question, but what do you see yourself doing in the future?
Something in fine art, not sure what yet. My mind changes like the weather.
Are there any upcoming events happening?
We just had a gabber party in Hangar with district magazine which was so much fun, but there will be something else coming soon so keep your eyes peeled.
You’ve been really involved with a lot of our events, what has been your favorite H&G Event so far?
Tall tales was probably my favorite H&G event because I met the loveliest of people and I got to run around half naked haha. Anyone who knows me knows that I never keep my clothes on.
If you wanna creep on Dylan some more check him out on Insta @dylan_kerr! Thanks, Dylan x
