QC: Can you tell us a bit about "Queer Borders"?

CJR: Using a combination of bold print and abstract and found images, and inspired by agitprop and the art of the anarchist underground, the poster puts forward a direct statement in support of queer solidarity against the repressive nature of borders and the racist and homophobic systems in which they exist.

QC: Why have you chosen this artwork?

CJR: Borders affect everyone but their implications are particularly severe for queer people; whether its gay men escaping state repression in Iran or trans sex workers fleeing violence in Brazil, the border is a further construct which limits human freedom. Solidarity, however, is a powerful tool. Raising awareness, raising funds, supporting asylum appeals, creating art, disrupting immigrations raids are all tangible actions that we can utilise to disrupt the border system and disrupt the hostile environment.

QC: What role does public art play in social justice movements?

CJR: Art and social justice, or radical left politics, are intrinsically linked. A lot of my stuff is inspired by groups like Up Against The Wall Motherfucker who combined art with militant anarchy, or King Mob who undertook graffiti campaigns around London. I think public art is a crucial means of spreading radical ideas and creating a radical culture - whether it's on billboards or graffiti covered squatted buildings, it all creates a visible alternative to the drudgery and normative nature of capitalism. 

QC: What are your hopes for this billboard campaign?

CJR: To see queer art with a genuine purpose in public spaces. 'Pride month' often feels appropriated or watered down by corporations and other large organisations - many with awful politics and awful ethics - pushing their faux-acceptable politics with a rainbow logo attached. To see actual political art created by queer people would be a welcome change! And hopefully direct people to new ideas and/or political groups in the process.