Gender & sexuality

Artists have used every medium imaginable to explore themes of gender and sexuality. The existence of radically different interpretations means the spectrum of gender and sexuality is limitless and constantly evolving. Reaching beyond the conventions of mainstream masculinity and femininity, and illuminating gender non-conformity in the past, the collections reveal histories of sex and spirituality, prejudice and pride, and the fight for visibility and equality.

Features

Header image:
Photograph of a fashion shoot for Yves Saint Laurent, 'Yves Saint Laurent, 1979', by Helmut Newton, published in French Vogue, March 1979. Museum no. PH.241-1985. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London