For Pride 2024, be yourself, be bold, and “Bee Proud!” with this fun enamel pin created in collaboration with Joe Average, a Vancouver-based artist, human rights activist, philanthropist, and avid Fluevoger. Featuring Joe’s original artwork on a vibrant background showcasing the Progress Pride Flag colours and design, this year’s Fluevog Pride Pin will brighten up both your day and your outfit as it encourages you to always follow your own path.
“The bee is from a canvas I did called “Bee Line”. A bunch of bees, all flying in the same way except for one. Kind of a self portrait. It represents confidence, and joy.” — Joe Average
“Bee Line” by Joe Average
The bee Joe chose for our Pride Pin has been part of various publicly available art pieces for close to 30 years. The “Bee Line” artwork was even featured on a custom bus wrap made for TransLink’s PrideBus in 2023.
TransLink’s 2023 PrideBus. Photo from TransLink.
About Joe Average
Joe’s colourful pop-inflected images have adorned Vancouver’s cityscape since the late 1980s. Diagnosed with HIV/AIDS at age 27, he used his art to advocate for people living with HIV and shared his personal story to raise awareness of the stigma associated with AIDS. He has donated his work to support charitable organizations that serve people with terminal illness. Joe was appointed to the Order of British Columbia in 2021 (along with fellow Fluevoger, Dr. Bonnie Henry)!
Joe is celebrated internationally for his vibrant art style, humility, and philanthropy, with a multi-decade history of optimistic, brightly coloured, cartoon-like figures and graphics in his work, as seen below.
Explore more of Joe’s art and unique style in his shop and on Instagram, and learn more about his story by watching this BC Legends interview!
Thank you to our staff for suggesting this partnership. Joe’s long-standing support for the LGBTQ+ community, including receiving the 2013 Vancouver Pride Legacy Award and having his art featured on the first Canadian postage stamp recognizing AIDS, made him a fitting choice for this collaboration.
Pride Pin Donations
All proceeds from the sale of this Pride Pin will be donated to the McLaren Housing Society, a non-profit organization that provides housing and support services for individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS while increasing their opportunities for improved health, wellness, independent living, and sense of community.
Joe Average in front of his mural “One World One Hope—40 Years Later” at Helmcken House. Photo by Mavreen David.
Shop the 2024 Fluevog Pride Pin now!
