Building on the success of AWP 2023, a new program is here for the new year. AWP 2024 is set to put on events in Sydney and Melbourne featuring a line-up of international and local queer thinkers. There will also be time, of course, for some partying.

AWP is an immersive program designed to challenge the status quo and celebrate the diversity of the architecture and design industry. It was established in 2023 by SJB to commemorate Sydney WorldPride and the AWP collective brings together practices from across Australia – including Architectus, Bates Smart, Cox Architecture, Carter Williamson, BVN, DKO, Geyer, Grimshaw, Turner, MHNDU and Hassell.

Support also comes from key organisations such as the Australian Institute of Architects, the NSW Gender Equity Taskforce, and the Emerging Architects and Graduate Network (EmAGN). Their message is that, together, we can foster an inclusive environment that celebrates the diversity within our industry.

Turning to the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival, the design community is being called upon to imagine and demand a just world under the theme, ‘Our Future’. It’s a theme that runs through many of AWP’s events this year.

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The Midsumma Pride March kicks things off in St Kilda, Melbourne with a daytime parade and march celebrating solidarity in gender and sexuality diversity. Bates Smart will host an info and networking session Thursday 1st February.

Sydney then hosts the Architecture Ball on Thursday 15th February at the Burdekin Hotel on Oxford Street, Darlinghurst. The event will bring back together the design community’s LGBTIQ+ practitioners (and allies) for a night of ecstasy and celebration with a line-up of some of Sydney’s best queer DJs and performers. In the words of the organisers, “if you’ve ever wanted to party with a bunch of queer architects and designers, then don’t miss this filthy hot space-making party.”

‘Love Letters to Our Future’ follows at Palms on Oxford Street on 22nd February, bringing together 12 of Australia’s most diverse design practitioners and creatives for a PowerPoint-style presentation sharing their experiences exploring, designing, creating, and celebrating queer futures – each posed as a love letter. AWP will select 12 proposals for five-minute immersive Love Letters and speakers will receive $250 for their participation.

Also in Sydney, ‘In Conversation: Queering Architecture’ will discuss modes of queering architecture in built form and across the profession. The event will be moderated by AIA CEO, Cameron Bruhn, with a panel featuring Practice Director of Smart Design Studio, Christina Markham, Director of Co-AP, Will Fung and Alison Cox, campaigner for gender neutral bathrooms to be mandated in the National Construction Code.

Last but not least, AWP will be marching for the third year down Oxford Street in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. AWP will invite 80 queer and ally designers to celebrate Our Future.

AWP welcomes more supporters to join forces and contribute to its success – find out more information and get involved below.

AWP
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