BEACONS - Nathaniel J. Bice - Oasis Sign Nocturne painting

Oasis Sign Nocturne 

Acrylic on panel

24”x18”

If you know the queer scene in San Francisco, you know Oasis. Once a bath house, it was converted into a nightclub, theater, and cabaret space dedicated to the art of drag. It was opened in 2014 by Heklina and D’Arcy Drollinger. It is revolutionary as a venue run by and for drag artists, as opposed to the typical model of bars bringing in drag as entertainment. Oasis was about to close at the end of 2025, but has been saved by a last minute donation to Oasis Arts, the nonprofit that produces theater in the venue. They hope to purchase the space and secure a stable future for the club.

I remember being overwhelmed and awed by Oasis on my first visit. Since then I’ve attended many shows and been part of the team for Fancypants, which took place there for the past two years. 

Their lightbulb sign is visually iconic, and the “Showtime” mural on the outside is a beautiful work of collaborative art. My painting captures what it’s like to stand outside the club right before you go in to revel in queer community and enjoy the best that drag has to offer. It’s not neon, but it certainly is a Beacon.