Bhui Agua

Archiving Queerness

Digital video with audio, 2024. The archival images used in this video are provided by Providence Public Library's special collections, specifically the Michael Guy and Padric Meagher collection.

Bhui Agua is a thematic exhibition put together by artists Sarah Leiva and Prinshu Gautam. Both artists were invested in making work that contributes to counter-archival practices of marginalized experiences. Leiva’s work is informed by concepts of queer futurity and draws inspiration from the past and present LGBTQIA+ community in Providence. Gautam’s pieces were made in response to the September 2024 floods that affected parts of eastern and central Nepal, the artist’s homeland. Both artists set up individual fundraisers as a part of the show to aid in their interventive practice of art-making that demands to remember and celebrate those who are often overlooked.

Leiva’s fundraiser for Haus of Codec, a Providence-based LGBTQIA+ resource center for youth, is still ongoing. You can donate directly to this organization or by reaching out to the artist and inquiring about jewelry being sold in relation to this fundraising initiative.