In the Line of Play

In the Line of Play
Navigating Injury, Stigma & Menstruation in Sport
Exhibition by Lucy Mayers 31st March- 4th April 2025
Women disproportionately experience sports injuries more frequently than men, and the risk increases leading up to and during menstruation. This issue is frequently overlooked but has
a significant effect on performance and well-being. More than 84% of teenage girls report a decline in their interest in sports after starting their periods, and nearly 23% feel embarrassed to participate in physical activities during their menstrual cycle. This shared experience, while challenging, also creates a unique bond among female athletes; however, it is highly stigmatised by those outside of this group. This represents a significant societal issue that requires more attention.

In a world that often separates sports and art into distinct categories, there is a growing desire to work at the boundaries of both disciplines. Whether it's through the physicality of a basketball game or the strokes of a paint brush, individuals can channel their emotions, thoughts and the ability to communicate and connect with others through creativity.

This exhibition by Lucy Mayers, an MA Art in Science student and a high-level lacrosse athlete, considers if the intersection of sports and art can promote understanding and empathy around the issues facing athletes?

“Unseen Battles: Injury, Stigma& Strength in Sport” presents the outcomes of a photo voice project that asked 5 athletes to document their sports activities and injuries through photography and reflective writing. The images, developed as cyanotypes for their ability to soften images and evoke curiosity, are similar to bruises, which can be seen as medals representing resilience. The cyanotypes reflect the way injuries, both physical and emotional, are often hidden, and while they fade over time, they have left a mark. Displayed as a wall of fame, the cyanotypes are accompanied by short vignettes from the athletes. CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO READ THE VIGNETTES. The transformation, nuanced and representative qualities of photo voice with in a sport-art project aim to tackle menstruation and injury-related stigma facing female athletes.

“From Sidelines to Spotlight” presents three mannequins as sculptural pieces to further contextualise Lucy’s own experiences as an athlete and touch upon feelings around uniform, equality, and stereotypes.

“Inside the Game” is a miniature lacrosse pitch on the floor of the
exhibition space, inviting the audience into a space usually only shared by the athletes.

Finally, “Playing Through: Pain, Stigma the Female Athlete Experience”, a self-portrait by Lucy, explores isolation and stigma faced by athletes during injury and the menstrual cycle, and provides a glimpse into related mental health impacts.