Pridemantle

"Pridemantle" was commissioned by the City of Fremantle in collaboration with the Fremantle Youth Network. It is the first artwork commissioned by the city specifically intended to celebrate Pride.

The concepts behind the table designs were initially brainstormed by the Fremantle Youth Network and I was brought in as an artist to assist with refining their ideas for maximum impact, handle logistics and lead the installation with their assistance. 

The Fremantle Youth Network's concept around Pride was specific to the unique identity of Fremantle by choosing to reference Marcus Canning's "Containbow" in the work. (Containbow is a large artwork overlooking the harbour. It's huge rainbow made out of shipping containers and is much loved by all but particularly the LGBTIQ+ community). To the members of the Fremantle Youth Network, helping to generate a feeling of inclusion and welcoming to all people in the heart of Fremantle (Walyalup Koort) was what they really wanted to achieve. They were extremely happy and proud to take part in this public art project.

In refining their ideas focused on the colours and structures of the Pride and Progress flags. In my research, I discovered that there are many, many flags which represent all the different LGBTQI+ communities. Each colour of the original Pride flag designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978 is in fact a symbol/ value. Likewise, The Progress flag has evolved to even better include and represent the global community and embracing all people.

The Fremantle Youth network initially came to me with designs, that were 2D and I evolved those in order to maximize the 3D nature of the tables. The Popp tables themselves are beautiful, formal, sculptural things. I explained to the young people that the sides of the tables are the most visible area and how we could grab people's attention from across the street with wrap- around designs. As you move about the tables and view them from different angles it's not the same as the experience at the other end/ the other side of the table.

My favorite part of working on the project was engaging with the Fremantle community in Walyalup Koort each day. People from all walks of life came over for a chat and we shared our stories. Passers-by were extremely supportive and encouraging of what I was doing. I got hugs, I nearly shed tears, I spoke with people who live, work and play in Freo, young and wise, and those who are having a very difficult time at the moment. 

More information/ articles about this project:

Fre-oh! Magazine Winter 2023 pg 3

Popp Artist Profile: Shavaurn Hanson