Leading public art organisation, UP Projects presents A Right to Feel Safe, the first of three online Assembly events exploring spatial justice and the role of public art in advocating for more inclusive cities. This event will centre on the experiences of women, girls, and LGBTQ+ communities, examining how public spaces can be made safer and more representative of diverse voices.
Featuring artists Sahra Hersi and Julian Prairie the event will explore the following questions:
- How can public art and activism reshape cities to be safer and more inclusive?
- What role does co-creation play in reflecting lived experiences in the public realm?
- Can better representation lead to greater empowerment for women, girls, and LGBTQ+ communities?
Sahra Hersi will showcase the Marshgate Lane Wayfinding Commission curated by UP Projects and developed in collaboration with a cohort of women Community Collaborators. Sahra will also draw upon her most recent work for the Women’s Museum to amplify the experiences of women in East London.
Julian Prairie, based in New York, will bring an international perspective drawing on their experience of installing a bust of the gay liberation activist and trailblazer, Marsha P. Johnson, in Christopher Park which became the first public sculpture of a trans person in New York City as well as their work with young queer and trans youth through QT Art Camp.
A Right to Feel Safe takes place ahead of the anniversary of Stonewall on 28 June 2025 and in the year that the UK Pride theme is Activism and Social Change.
The event is part of UP Projects’ Constellations learning and development programme for artists, curators, practitioners and those interested in the intersection of contemporary art, social practice and the public realm.
