FORWARD PLAY! is an initiative spearheaded by designer and art director Eve Warren that champions creativity through football. To celebrate the 2023 Women's World Cup, 33 extraordinary illustrators were tasked to create a piece of artwork depicting trailblazers of importance in women's football.

WWC23 issue

Background

In 2022, 17.4m people watched the Lionesses historic victory at last summer’s UEFA Women’s Euros.

This signaled a new dawn for women’s football. In March 2023, it was announced that the UK government would provide more than £600m in funding to allow girls equal access to sports following a campaign spearheaded by England’s Lionesses.

However, despite the Lionesses historic victory, and with the support from the government, teenage girls still have limited opportunities in football, especially those who are passionate about football but disengaged in school, or who are from areas of socioeconomic disadvantage.

According to Football Beyond Borders 2023 report, “Inspiring a Generation?”

View full report

So what are we going to do about it?

Our first project will be an exhibition held at Colours May Vary in Leeds, running from 27th July - 28th August 2023.

There will be a instore limited run of stickers in collaboration with NO FUSS and a poster-style zine. All profits will be donated to Football Beyond Borders, to help them raise £100,000 to ensure a generation of teenage girls isn’t left behind.

ARTWORK BY ANDY SANDWICH

For press enquiries and collaborations contact evewarren@forward-play.com

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