Artworks
Narrative
“The Goal of Queer Space is Orgasm” is an exploration of cruising spaces. Cruising spaces are areas where members of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly men who have sex with men, engage in anonymous and casual sexual encounters. This project explores the spaces these acts are carried out in, looking at the social and spatial characteristics that influence the evolution of these places. Different patterns begin to emerge in the landscapes that influence the act of cruising. A common theme in Lawler’s practice is to capture evidence of social engagement, examining what is left behind. Using the artefacts and topography of these cruising spaces to reconstruct narratives of chance encounters and intimate moments.
This work invites the audience into a hidden world through a series of photographic images and single channel video. Lawler’s mediums call the viewer to immerse themselves in these places and to contemplate on the hidden “spaces” that occupy our world. “The Goal of Queer Space is Orgasm” not only sheds light on the physicality of cruising spaces but also underscores their cultural and historical importance within LGBTQ+ communities, prompting a deeper exploration of identity, intimacy, and the urban experience.
This work invites the audience into a hidden world through a series of photographic images and single channel video. Lawler’s mediums call the viewer to immerse themselves in these places and to contemplate on the hidden “spaces” that occupy our world. “The Goal of Queer Space is Orgasm” not only sheds light on the physicality of cruising spaces but also underscores their cultural and historical importance within LGBTQ+ communities, prompting a deeper exploration of identity, intimacy, and the urban experience.
Biography
Cian Lawler is an Irish visual artist. His personal practice primarily explores human interventions within the landscape and our nuanced responses to these places. Photography is the main medium that is used to explore these landscapes often capturing banal imagery. The images lack any sort of perceived beauty and challenge the idea of landscape photography. Home and the complex emotions that are tied to the place play a large role in Lawler’s work. Currently Lawler is working on an untitled project that is exploring his connection to the landscape of small-town Ireland whilst navigating the complexities of being queer.