The Getty Center in Los Angeles has launched two landmark exhibitions that highlight the rich and often overlooked history and culture of the LGBTQ+ community. Titled “Queer Lens: A History of Photography” and “$3 Bill: Evidence of Queer Lives,” these exhibitions, which opened on June 16, 2025, offer visitors an immersive look into LGBTQ+ history through the lens of photography and archival materials, spanning two centuries of art and activism.
“Queer Lens: A History of Photography” delves into the evolving representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in photography, showcasing how artists have documented the queer experience over the years. The exhibition examines pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ history, exploring how photography has been used both as a tool for self-expression and as a form of resistance against societal norms. From early 19th-century portraits of queer figures to contemporary images of LGBTQ+ activists, Queer Lens brings to the forefront the way photographers have captured the complexities of identity, love, and struggle within the queer community. This exhibition provides a rich narrative of how photography has played a role in both documenting and shaping the LGBTQ+ experience.
Alongside it, “$3 Bill: Evidence of Queer Lives” showcases a diverse range of archival materials, including personal letters, fliers, posters, and zines that document the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. The exhibition emphasizes the role of grassroots activism and community-building in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, highlighting the personal stories behind the political progress. Named after the historical phrase “$3 Bill,” which refers to something seen as counterfeit or unacceptable, this exhibit provides a candid and intimate glimpse into the LGBTQ+ struggle for visibility and acceptance over the decades.
The opening event for these exhibitions was a part of the Getty’s Salon Series and was held in collaboration with LA Pride, a fitting partnership given the significance of Pride celebrations in recognizing LGBTQ+ history. The evening was marked by a series of discussions and performances that illuminated the powerful role that both art and activism have played in shaping LGBTQ+ rights and culture.
Both exhibitions are an important part of the Getty Center’s broader commitment to providing inclusive and diverse programming. By showcasing LGBTQ+ history and contributions, these exhibitions challenge visitors to reflect on how far the community has come, while acknowledging the ongoing struggles for equality and acceptance.
The Getty’s “Queer Lens” and “$3 Bill” exhibitions are a significant step toward creating spaces where marginalized communities can see themselves represented in cultural institutions. By preserving and displaying these important narratives, the Getty not only celebrates LGBTQ+ culture but also ensures that future generations will have access to these vital histories.
As the exhibitions continue to run through the summer, visitors are encouraged to engage with the materials and explore the intersections of art, history, and identity. For many, these exhibitions offer an essential opportunity to reflect on the past while looking toward the future of LGBTQ+ rights, visibility, and representation.
