Producing Utopia: Creatively Producing Non-binary Futurity in Queer Art Projects

Abstract

The central focus of this research is exploring how to hold space for non-binary narratives within the context of creative producing. To answer this question, the study uses the self-formulated queer methodology called Enby-on-Enby, which draws on field research and close reading and is based on Ulrika Dahl’s femme on femme. The researcher is a creative producer involved in two distinct queer art projects, both of which include non-binary narratives: More is More and R3LN4CHT. The first of the three chapters is focused on conceptualizing the idea of non-binary futurity within the context of performance art. Non-binary futurity is seen as an ideality that challenges normative gender fixity and embraces the future potential of gender fluidity. The second chapter then analyzes artworks from the two queer art projects, looking for aspects of the works with a utopian aesthetic. This chapter points to elements within the artworks that encourage viewers to reflect on the possibility of alternative embodiments and to imagine a world where gender fluidity is thriving. Finally, the third chapter delves into the producer's efforts to create the right conditions for social spaces that reinforce the utopian potential of the artworks and performances. The chapter understands that More is More and R3LN4CHT have different strategies, but both are based on boundary-pushing connectivity between artists, art, and the audience. However, one project tries to create a safer space for gender non-conforming individuals to participate in art and performance, while the other project seeks to create critical spaces where non-binary and heteronormative perspectives can rub against each other. In conclusion, this thesis argues that framing non-binary futurity for the creative producer requires creating conditions that encourage viewers and creators to participate in thinking about alternative possibilities of gender embodiment and to consider the ideal of gender fluidity. By focusing on the non-binary in queer projects and focusing on the practice of the creative producer, the study expands the understanding of the role of the producer in creating inclusive storytelling for the non-binary story.