LONDON.- The Royal Air Force Museum has appointed artist David Tovey for an art commission which will examine the experiences of veterans affected by the ‘gay ban’ (1967-2000) – legislation which prevented gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals from serving in HM Armed Forces. The artwork will also explore experiences of currently serving LGBT+ personnel. Marking the 25th anniversary of the ban’s repeal (12 January 2000), Tovey will collaborate closely with LGBT+ veterans and personnel in a series of community workshops to produce an artwork which not only shares their experiences but reflects on their achievements and contributions to the RAF, which were formerly effaced and delegitimised by the ban.


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Tovey, himself an Army veteran affected by the ban, described his interest in working with these communities: ‘I want us to build something together that is breathtaking – open, unflinching, personal and poignant. Something that shows the world what we went through: how hard it was and how resilient and beautiful our community is’.


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Outlining a broad vision for the project, he explained: ‘This artwork isn’t only a reflection of the past; it is a statement about the present and a vision for the future—amplifying voices and promoting understanding, dignity, respect and positive change’.
The appointment was made after an open call inviting artists to propose socially engaged projects on the theme of the ban. The selection committee included LGBT+ veterans, community educators and art professionals.

• David Tovey is a London-based multi-disciplinary artist and activist whose work centres on social justice and engagement with marginalised communities. He is a British Army veteran who left service in 1997.

• The lifting of the ‘gay ban’ on 12 January 2000 was a pivotal moment in the UK Armed Forces’ journey towards greater inclusion and equality.

• Lord Etherton’s ‘Independent Review into the service and experience of LGBT veterans who served in HM Armed Forces between 1967 and 2000’, published in May 2023, made 49 recommendations for reparations which were accepted and implemented by the government, including a financial redress scheme, the restoration of medals, clarification of pension rights, and a special veterans’ badge.

• The artwork, produced in response to a series of LGBT+ communities’ workshops, will be exhibited at the RAF Museums in London and Cosford, encouraging greater awareness and understanding of the RAF’s diverse histories.