When: Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th May 2025
(10.30am-5pm)
Where: Spark, York.
What and why!
The exhibition is to raise awareness that park design affects women and girls’ use of public spaces – it can either enhance or limit the freedom these spaces should provide. Research shows girls’ presence in parks declines sharply in teenage years – and patterns set in these years can affect how women use and feel in the public space.
The new exhibition is part of the ongoing Make Space York project and is a mix of information and creative pieces to raise awareness of the issue, share more on the project that’s been happening in York and what’s been achieved so far, and start to imagine solutions for more inclusive parks. Teenage girls have been at the heart of this project, and the exhibition celebrates their voices. Through raising awareness and sharing lived experiences to engage the audience we invite you to question the status quo. Only by realising the issues can we work towards the solutions of more inclusive parks and public spaces.
Over the weekend there will also be interactive ‘stations’ where you can share views and experiences, design parks, contribute to a collective piece of art and create a zine. Some activities are drop in and available through the times the exhibition on, and some sessions will require booking in advance. Information will be shared here in early May.
People of all backgrounds and ages are welcome at the exhibition, and of course – teenagers are welcome to come along with our without parents/carers and ‘hang’ in this space and share their views and ideas for a more equitable future.
More information on the project as a whole can be found here.
