for LGBT+ art commission marking 25 years since the ending of the Armed Forces ‘gay ban’

The Royal Air Force Museum has appointed artist David Tovey for an art commission which will examine the experiences of veterans affected by the ‘gay ban’ (1967-2000) – legislation which prevented gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals from serving in HM Armed Forces. The artwork will also explore experiences of currently serving LGBT+ personnel.

Marking the 25th anniversary of the ban’s repeal (12 January 2000), Tovey will collaborate closely with LGBT+ veterans and personnel in a series of community workshops to produce an artwork which not only shares their experiences but reflects on their achievements and contributions to the RAF, which were formerly effaced and delegitimised by the ban.

Tovey, himself an Army veteran affected by the ban, described his interest in working with these communities: ‘I want us to build something together that is breathtaking – open, unflinching, personal and poignant. Something that shows the world what we went through: how hard it was and how resilient and beautiful our community is’.

Outlining a broad vision for the project, he explained: ‘This artwork isn’t only a reflection of the past; it is a statement about the present and a vision for the future—amplifying voices and promoting understanding, dignity, respect and positive change’.

The appointment was made after an open call inviting artists to propose socially engaged projects on the theme of the ban. The selection committee included LGBT+ veterans, community educators and art professionals.

Join the Conversation—

Workshops for LGBT+ veterans and serving personnel will be central to David’s development of the artwork. These will be hosted in welcoming spaces where participants can share, create, and collaborate in ways that feel right for them.

At our museums in London, Cosford and online, the workshops will be delivered by the artist and RAF Museum staff trained in safeguarding vulnerable adults, and sessions will be supported by a trauma-informed counsellor.

All sessions will be tailored to the interests and comfort levels of those involved, not pushing anyone further than they want to go. Quiet spaces will be available for participants who may need a moment to step away.

The workshops will be fully accessible to disabled and neurodivergent participants. Please let us know if you have any accessibility needs and if there is anything you need to feel safe and supported.

If you would like to attend any of our workshops, in person or virtually, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please complete our online form and we will be in contact shortly.

• David Tovey is a London-based multi-disciplinary artist and activist whose work centres on social justice and engagement with marginalised communities. He is a British Army veteran who left service in 1997.