Everybody needs play. But somehow as we grow older people just seem to forget how to play. I am doing a research project this semester. I am interested in why people play and why not and how I can use these insights to design for playful systems that are inviting. As I was quite stuck in my process, reading dry papers and thinking about the subject without getting anywhere, I decided to do a little field observation in the hope to get some inspiration and insights. So I made a simple swing in about an hour, hung it outside and observed as everybody was coming out of class. Although most people passed by without interacting with the swing, there were a few people who did try it out and played with it. I hope they enjoyed it. I certainly did.
Extended story: The next day my swing was gone. So I boldly walked up to the central security office of the university to check if they had perhaps taken my swing :p “A swing you say?” *looking at me like I was gone mad* They obviously didn’t have a clue, so I made a new one and hung it inside the main building (next to the world press photo exhibition). I’m still not sure what my project will bring, but at least I had a good time and I think some others did as well.
Do you ever play? Do you ever feel ashamed to play in public places?
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10 Comments
Elina
September 22, 2011 at 11:06
What a great idea! I could easily imagine taking a swing in this, although not in this town… In a city as smaal as the one I live in, it would be much harder to ignore starnge looks :/
ps. I’m following you now. Your photography is amazing and the whole blog reminds me of my favorite blog, colormekatie (=
ktpland
September 23, 2011 at 13:55
What a great idea! Sometimes when it’s sunny my bloke & I head down to the swings & sit there with sweets chatting away. Nothing beats a swing it’s the king of all playground equipment!
polkadotsandsparkles
September 24, 2011 at 02:33
What a wonderful idea! There should be more fun in the world.
Beks xx
Aliya
September 24, 2011 at 16:38
First things first, I am head over heels in love with your blog header!!! I looked through your older posts and I must say your photography is pretty amazing! You have such a pretty blog! Am following you!
Just to let you know my giveaway is up and running:
Win the Vintage Dress of Your Choice! (open to everyone)
http://papermoonsandmacarons.blogspot.com/2011/09/giveaway-in-springtime.html
x Aliya
Clare
September 24, 2011 at 20:54
Swings have always been my favorite playground activity , and if there’s an open one at a park I’ll definitely still hop on, shame-free :) What a great and fun research project–you’ll have to share your results!
Squidgy Cheese and Lemon Drizzle
September 25, 2011 at 10:33
This is so much fun!! I wish I was there!
Berni xx
Magical Day Dream
September 26, 2011 at 20:13
@ Elina: haha even in big towns people will give strange looks :p But I understand. That’s a great compliment! I also know her blog and love it. So welcome :)
@ktplant: That’s so sweet! I love that swings can be both active and passive things according to your mood.
@polkadotsandsparkles: I totally agree! Perhaps if we all try to help a little bit we end up making it a more fun place :)
@ Aliya: Thank you so much and welcome to my blog!
@ Clare: Good for you! I don’t blog that often about my study (actually I think this might be the first time), but I might show a bit more if I try out some cool playful stuff that is worthwhile to share :)
@ SC&LD: Thanks :) You can always make your own swing if you wish for one..
Moorea Seal
September 27, 2011 at 06:32
Oh my gosh this is awesome! I had an installation art class my freshman year of art school and I have to say, I was a very shy 19 year old so installing the pieces around school in public places was SO intimidating for me! Go you for charging ahead with your creative and interactive idea!!
xo Moorea
Stephanie
September 27, 2011 at 14:59
awesome.
Magical Day Dream
September 29, 2011 at 19:33
@ Moorea Seal: I know! Hanging them there made me feel a little bit awkward (although of course I pretended to be busy with the most natural thing in the world to be doing at that place in that time). Not even considering the part where I sneaky position my camera to shoot some material in order to analyze it aftwerwards.. and then the faces of people who DO realize you are doing this haha. Thank you for your encouraging words!
@Stephanie: thanks :D