David Hockney famously said that “people tend to forget that play is serious,” but for the artists and designers behind some of the world’s most visionary parks and museums, recreation has never been a trivial matter.
A new book by Emmy Watts travels the globe to highlight more than 80 spectacular environments created purely to foster one of the most primal activities. Published by Hoxton Mini Press, The Art of Play is a vast compendium featuring a range of interactive, immersive, and conceptual spaces for both children and adults.
Included is Mike Hewson’s seemingly perilous design in Melbourne, which perches massive boulders attached to slides, monkey bars, and other equipment on tiny wheels fit for a skateboard (don’t worry: they’re secured with rods).
Others take inspiration from nature, including the colorful bubble architecture of an Istanbul playground and the fantastic characters at an all-ages park in Chongqing, China. Outfitted with typical equipment like sandboxes and tunnels, this space also has tables for checkers and exercise areas specifically geared toward older adults.
Pick up a copy of The Art of Play for a dose of whimsy and perhaps to help plan your next family vacation.
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