Darlinghurst’s iconic LGBTQIA+ venue Kinselas has been shining brightly during WorldPride as one of the most popular venues for locals and visitors alike.
After being transformed by Johnnie Walker for Sydney WorldPride into the Walk Proud @ Kinselas Bar, the doors were opened on the 17th of February for a project that aims to celebrate and promote a more equal understanding of all LGBTQIA+ identities through education, storytelling and performances from proud members of the community, whilst also creating an ongoing legacy within the bricks and mortar of the heritage listed building.
The City of Sydney has granted a Heritage Exemption for the entire exterior of Kinselas to be painted with an inclusive artwork commissioned by Johnnie Walker and designed by Double Rainbouu’s Co-Founder & Creative Director, Mikey Nolan, which was unveiled on February 16.
“The design for the exterior on the iconic Kinselas is intended to represent the patchwork of diverse identities that form our wonderful LGBTQIA+ community and reflect that we are made up of separate identities, but we are also one, and we are stronger together,” artist Nolan said.
Walk Proud @ Kinselas is currently hosting over 40 events through to March 5th across all four floors, including acts from critically acclaimed non-binary musician G Flip, Queer Folk-Pop artist Alex The Astronaut, Australian Pop Band Cub Sport and Gomeroi woman, Trans and First Nations advocate and solicitor DJ Crescendoll.
By partnering with trailblazers across the queer community, Johnnie Walker aims to recognise and empower progress for every LGBTQIA+ identity and inspire people to Keep Walking Proudly towards a more inclusive future.
David Clifton from Kinselas said they were incredibly excited to revamp the venue in partnership with Johnnie Walker for Sydney WorldPride.
“Kinselas has been a staple within the LGBTQIA+ community for decades, located in the heart of Sydney’s queer community,” Clifton said.
“We can’t wait to see the mural come to life and host many talented members of the community for the celebrations.”
On the partnership with Sydney WorldPride and Kinselas, Angus McPherson, Managing
Director Australia of Diageo said the Walk Proud @ Kinselas is an extraordinarily special project from the team at Diageo.
“This is a chance for Johnnie Walker to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone to celebrate the full spectrum of the LGBTQIA+ community during Sydney WorldPride,” McPherson said.
“We’re proud to partner with Kinselas to revamp this legendary location and spread a message of progress and positivity that inspires people to Keep Walking Proudly towards a more inclusive future.”
Last Updated on Feb 27, 2023
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