ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Kunsthal Rotterdam celebrates voguing and ballroom culture with 'Deep in Vogue' exhibition

exhibition · 2026-04-27

The Kunsthal Rotterdam will host 'Deep in Vogue. Celebrating Ballroom Culture' from September 18, 2021 to January 9, 2022. The exhibition explores voguing, a dance style inspired by poses from Vogue magazine, which was popularized by Madonna's 1990 hit 'Vogue'. Originating in New York City in the 1970s, ballroom culture provided a safe haven for the queer community amid police violence and discrimination. The show features vintage photographs, video installations, and fashion pieces that highlight the codes and expressive power of the ballroom scene. It also acknowledges the recent mainstream resurgence of ballroom culture through the TV series 'Pose' and dance events at major festivals worldwide. The exhibition emphasizes the roots of voguing and the ongoing need for the LGBTQIA+ community to celebrate its history.

Key facts

  • Exhibition 'Deep in Vogue. Celebrating Ballroom Culture' at Kunsthal Rotterdam
  • Runs from September 18, 2021 to January 9, 2022
  • Voguing dance style inspired by poses from Vogue magazine
  • Madonna's 1990 song 'Vogue' popularized the dance
  • Ballroom culture originated in New York City in the 1970s
  • Provided refuge for queer community from police discrimination
  • Exhibition includes vintage photographs, video installations, and fashion
  • Mainstream resurgence via TV series 'Pose' and festival dance events

Entities

Artists

  • Madonna

Institutions

  • Kunsthal Rotterdam

Locations

  • Rotterdam
  • Netherlands
  • New York City
  • United States

Sources