Before the Siren

LARA THOMS & SNAPCAT
PERTH INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

2017

Melbourne artist Lara Thoms and Snapcat collaborated on this large-scale public artwork celebrating women’s sports teams, girl gangs and social clubs at Fremantle Oval.

With the Fremantle Dockers being one of only eight teams selected for the inaugural AFL National Women’s League in 2017, Before the Siren was a timely exploration of how women gather socially, politically and recreationally across generations.

Featuring commentary from comedian Hannah Gadsby and a feminist anthem written by Elise Reitze and performed by Gina Williams, this project brought together women and girls from community groups including: The Butler Falcons (culturally diverse youth girls football team), Girl Guides WA, The Sirens (women's Dockers fan club), WA Roller Derby, The Red Hatters (social group for women over 50), The Shirley Club (group of women named Shirley), Gorna Liyarn (Indigenous youth dance group),  Amnesty Women’s Rights Group WA, The Embroiderers’ Guild of WA and WA Women Motorcycle Riders.

With large handmade banners, a mascot showdown and a troupe of male cheerleaders, this major work saw community activism, art and sport combine as part half-time entertainment and part political rally.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Before the Siren was the culmination of weeks of meetings, workshops, phone calls and emails with 10 incredible community groups + other creatives, football teams and a host of people involved in the event. 

Below are some highlights of those meetings and workshops!