Flagger/Flow Artist

Rooted in the fanning or fan dancing tradition of the gay discos of the 1970s, as well as in the rave-style circuit parties of the 90s (think lots of black light and day-glo), flaggers have evolved the “flow” art form, which was initially popularized as a way to keep one’s self and others cool on the dancefloor. Flaggers spin large pieces of dyed and weighted cloth in circular, sometimes choreographed motions that match and visually amplify the music. (Note that the term “flagging” can also be used in the context of the Hanky CodeA highly specific clothing option used by some men to advertise and delineate sexual preferences. This code was widely used in the 1970s, but is much less used today because discretion and secrecy are no longer as necessary, and because online cruising is an even more direct and specific means of cruising. The hanky code typically references bandanna-style handkerchiefs that are both color-coded and placement-coded, and that are typically worn in the back pocket (a practice known as flagging that is not to be confused with the flow arts of the gay dance circuit). Generally speaking, hankies worn on the right side of the body indicate that the wearer is a bottom, whereas hankies worn on the left indicate a preference for being the topCan be used as a noun or a verb to describe someone who is dominant in a partnership, in a sexual relationship, or in life in general (See “Bottom”). . to mean something entirely different.)

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