To me, the phrase commit no nuisance captures something essential about the queer community’s insistence to live authentically, even when the world bristles. It is about women kissing in public spaces, and about far more: It is about daring to exist fully.
Frankie, on the left, has been part of the St Albans community her entire life. And yet, when she and Chloe (right) want to marry they find that they are not able to do so in St Albans Abbey although the Abbey wish it could be different and are delighted to offer them a blessing, their hands are tied. They cannot marry them legally. Frankie’s sister will marry her future husband there. Frankie will not marry her future wife.
To me, their spirit is reflected in the clocktower: a turret built out of independence and defiance. The people of St Albans once demanded their own measure of life, and they won it. Declaring what we need may be inconvenient to others, but it is just, and it is right.
Frankie and Chloe will not be married at St Alban’s Abbey. Still, they exist, they insist, they love. In the 21st century, queerness still seems to mean struggle: a constant demand to exist, to be seen and to be heard. Many dream simply of being allowed to live quietly, to thrive without having to shout but often the queer spirit must be loud and stubborn just to endure.
Commit no nuisance the sign commands and what we ask is no nuisance. It is dignity, joy, and love.
Medium: Gouache on canvas board
Artist: Caroline Reid
