"What role have physical spaces such as dyke bars played in the past and how has that changed over time? How do we learn from these spaces and move forward in creating new ones that are safe and affirming while embracing expansive notions of gender and sexuality across generations?" – Macon Reed
This two-part panel series brings together the founders and organisers of some of Sydney’s most exciting queer community spaces, underground scenes, and queer-led parties.
The first panel DIY Dykes offers an opportunity to share the histories and lessons learned from building alternative lesbian/dyke spaces, while subverting stereotypes still present in the larger queer community about who goes to dyke bars and why. Hear from co-convenor of the Lesbian Space Project Georgina Abrahams, co-founder/director of The Red Rattler Penelope Benton, founder of The Bearded Tit Joy Ng, and artist Macon Reed as they question: Why are dyke bars disappearing from the queer cultural landscape? Do we need them anymore? How have cultural and socio-economic factors such as gentrification contributed to this phenomenon?
The second panel Queer Futures considers the kinds of spaces we want to create moving forward and how this connects to the lessons of the past. The discussion will delve into the politics of assimilation vs. liberation (pursuing access and visibility within existing institutions vs. transforming or working outside of these systems). Hear from multidisciplinary performance artist Megan Holloway, events producer, curator and writer Kelly Lovemonster, performer and storyteller Kilia Tipa, and artist Macon Reed as they question: How do we create inclusive spaces that acknowledge intersectionalities in better ways?
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Presented by UNSW Galleries, the National Art School and Sydney WorldPride, Eulogy for the Dyke Bar is a sculptural environment and memorial to bygone dyke bars. The installation incorporates a café and operating bar, and functions as an active community space for performances, cruising, socialising, and contemplating the future of queer spaces.
This project reclaims the term ‘dyke’ in its most expansive sense and recognises that gender and identities are complex and fluid. Anyone who identifies with, or feels an allyship with, the dyke part of the queer spectrum is welcome and valued at the dyke bar.
Bar open: 5 – 10pm Tuesday – Friday
Installation open: 9am – 5pm Monday – Saturday
Explore the full program here
