A memorial for XXL
2020
Inspired by the typology of religious altars, ‘A memorial for XXL’ is a physical manifestation of the mens-only nightclub located in Southwark, South London. XXL was a temple for London’s bear and leather communities for almost two decades. Although controversial because of its strict door policy that rejected any visible signs of femininity, it held a special place in London’s gay scene as the last remaining super club equipped with a labyrinthine darkroom. The altar amplifies the spatial characteristics of XXL that were once private and unknown to passers-by. The focal point of the monument lies in its medial circular opening. The circle itself ‘glorifies’ the glory-hole, a common denominator of the darkroom typology and a symbol of transgressive sexuality. Aside from its symbolic purpose, it enables mourners to pay their respects by placing their offerings through. A chrome weight bar animates the monument by inviting mourners to participate in a fitness ritual, associated with XXL’s former clientele.
(1mm aluminium sheet plate , aluminium box sections, chrome bar, 12mm mdf)
