OUR STORY
Once upon a time, six queer artists and festival friends met over food and libations, and excitedly agreed that queer culture in Austin was at a creative zenith. But they also agreed that something was missing:
A queer space that pushed participants to explore beyond their artistic comfort zones; that created powerful dialogue between artists, academics, and audience members; that brought together LGBTA+ artists from around the world.
By the end of the evening, OUTsider was born.
Our Journey
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January 2014
Six friends met over drinks; drank; and OUTsider was born
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May 2014
OUTsider hosts its first event: MAYDAYGAYDAY
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July 2014
Registered as a 501(c)3 organization
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October 2014
Received our first grant from the City of Austin
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February 2015
The inaugural OUTsider Festival and Conference on the Couch launches in Austin, TX
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December 2015
Held fundraising telethon to raise money for 2016 festival
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February 2021
Virtual art festival and Conference on the Couch held
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February 2023
Received City of Austin Thrive Grant, awarded to sustain and grow arts organizations that are deeply rooted in and reflective of Austin’s diverse cultures.