Out of the Closet & Into the Light
Investigating the current conditions of Gay people in Asia, and what led to it
Infographic
3D Installation
While researching the conditions of homosexuality in Asia it was clear there was a lot to talk about. Not only legally, but culturally, historically and socially. However for one infographic poster, that is a lot of information to present. So, in order to create a clearer narrative and present more digestible information, I slimmed the main research down to 20 years in only 10 countries. It was important that this wasn't convoluted because I wanted people not only to learn, but to also feel inspired. The world is so large, and there are so many Queer people, it's important that we start/continue to fight for Queer people everywhere.
Previous iterations of the map of Asia included only computer generated vectors. But they always felt too artificial, especially for such a raw topic. So instead of relying solely on digital solutions I printed out the map and cut the countries the poster focused on, out from a piece vellum paper. This was then layered on top of the map and scanned, allowing for more organic textures and shapes to peak through.
Fun fact: The texture on the title was the result of a printing error from a test print, but I put it in the final version because it made sense with the organic look and process of the background map.
To reach and inspire more people, this structure is erected to create more awareness of the conditions that the Gay people in Asia face. This 24 ft tall structure is made completely out of glass blocks. Countries in which it is illegal to be gay, are identified by the completely clear glass, while countries where it is legal are identified by the lighter pink glass and countries where gay marriage is legal are identified by the hot pink glass. The front faces of all the blocks however remain completely clear, representing the way in which homosexuals, even in the countries where it is legalized, are told to hide who they are and repress their identities.
The lengths of the glass blocks are respective of their ‘equality index’ as reported by Equaldex.
The proposed location of this installation would be in Taiwan, the first Asian country to legalize Gay marriage, but more specifically, the Red House Theater. Surrounded by many Gay bars, as well as having its own, rich, Queer history, this location is perfect for educating and inspiring Gay and Straight people alike.
When it gets dark, certain blocks in the structure will begin to light up in a specific sequence, signifying the order in which homosexuality was legalized in the corresponding countries, with the first set displaying the countries that had never outlawed it
BART App
Gusto
Work and Website made by
Caden Chang 2026