Lucy Joins Hanky Code at Artemisia Gallery

Exploring Queer Colour — Lucy Joins Hanky Code at Artemisia Gallery

We’re so thrilled to share that our own Lucy from Embrace This Space is showing her visual art publicly for the first time! Her work is currently on display in the group exhibition Hanky Code: An Exploration of Queer Colour, guest curated by The Artist Known As FOOT. The exhibition runs at Artemisia Gallery from June 18–29, in celebration of Pride Month.

Lucy besides her artworks, beaming in soft pride and bold colour

This vibrant and affirming show invites artists to explore queerness, identity, and self-expression through colour—and Lucy’s contribution is personal, poetic, and powerful.

Here’s what Lucy shared with us about the experience:

I saw a TikTok by The Artist Known As FOOT inviting folks to contribute. I’d never participated in a gallery show for my visual art before, so this felt risky—but ultimately exciting. The two pieces I submitted are my first self-portraits and felt like a reclamation of my creative process, my identity, and my right to take up space.

Being asexual is a confusing space for me—especially in relation to others. Similarly, connecting to my body through that identity has often felt distant or ignored. Making these pieces was filled with moments like

Lucy in the studio — painting, observing, layering emotion and pigment

Can I really do this?

Stealing little moments to centre myself

Looking. Considering. Noticing.

I can pick any colours?’

Delight. Anticipation. Curiosity. Care.

It turned into something that felt like love.

Eventually, I shared them with friends. After receiving such warm feedback and seeing FOOT’s TikTok again, I had a little ‘stuff it, why not?’ moment and submitted them. It still feels risky—but also like I’m moving into a space I’m allowed to occupy. A way to connect. A way to celebrate the beautiful, messy, vibrant complexity of being queer.

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Peek into Lucy’s Creative Journey:

We couldn’t be prouder of Lucy’s vulnerability, courage, and creative joy.

If you’re in Naarm/Melbourne, pop by Artemisia Gallery before June 29 to see her work in person. And don’t forget to bring your own colour, softness, and curiosity—you just might find a little piece of yourself reflected there too.