World Expo Osaka 2025
affect lab presents BLOODY BEAUTIFUL in Japan: digital inclusivity for all bodies.
BLOODY BEAUTIFUL is a movement dedicated to normalising conversations around menstruation and menopause through a gender-inclusive lens. Everyone is invited by affect lab to share and celebrate stories about these experiences – stories that are often hidden or considered taboo. The movement recognises that not everyone who menstruates identifies as a woman. It seeks to ensure that the voices of queer and trans people, who are frequently overlooked or marginalised in public spaces, are included in conversations about periods.
In 2025, the Japanese edition – guided by collaborator Sputniko! (the artist name of Hiro Ozaki) – will take the form of a workshop, drawing inspiration from Japan’s ballroom scene, an underground LGBTQ+ subculture that provides a safe space for self-expression through dance, fashion and performance. This workshop will bring queer and trans bodies together to create a unique creative output alongside urgent research. Inspired by the trans community that finds a safe haven within Tokyo’s ballroom culture, affect lab will explore how their work can offer another platform for storytelling and expression.
About affect lab
affect lab is a creative studio and research practice, affect lab uses immersive storytelling, design research and experimental fieldwork to explore and inspire a more inclusive future.
Events
- Part of showcase Universal Equity (16 May–9 June) in the Event Space of the Dutch Pavilion.
- A talk show - and auction hosted by affect lab - will take place on 17 May, 18.00 – 20.00, also in the Event Space.