Queer Bodies

Emerging visual artist Tess Hider presents a major solo presentation

In the exhibition Queer bodies, Tess Hider explores personal storytelling and research through the mediums of painting and sculpture. The collection of works looks at an overarching theme of queer identity. Viewing the concept of 'queer' through the lens of disability theory, queer theory, and crip theory.

By stepping out of the norm, you are stepping into a new group, a queer one, open to difference. The LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities both exist outside the heteronormative able-bodied world, connecting through an openness to ‘other’. The solo exhibition Queer bodies highlights that idea of ‘other’.

Tess Hider is an emerging Australian based multidisciplinary artist, her works look at personal experiences with disability and chronic pain, and the complexity and intersectionality of acquired disabilities including the personal, social and political impacts.

She completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at RMIT in 2025. Hider had her first solo exhibition, Inpatient, at First Site Gallery, Melbourne, 2025. Recent group exhibitions include Exhibition for ants, Unassigned gallery, Melbourne, 2024; Intersections, RMIT Sculpture Club, Melbourne, 2024; Eltham Art Show, Rotary Eltham, Melbourne, 2022 and Creative Minds, Eltham Library Community Gallery, Melbourne, 2018.

The presentation of this Rainbow Exhibition is an initiative of Nillumbik Shire Council and aligns with supporting an equitable and inclusive community where human rights are respected, participation is facilitated, barriers are addressed, and diversity is celebrated.

The exhibition continues until Sunday 1 March. The following free public programs will run alongside the show:

• Celebration Event on Friday 30 January | 6.30pm - 8.30pm | All Welcome | Register online.
• Banner Making Workshop | Sunday 8 February | 10am - 11.30am | For teens and adults | Register online.

Please note the Eltham Library Community Gallery is closed on public holidays.