As the first lockdown hit in March 2020, we had to adjust the participatory element of the project as we could no longer go into our partner schools. Instead we sent out questions to participant families from Chadsgrove school in Bromsgrove, asking them to share their experiences of play in the outdoors; what they enjoy and what they don’t like, what activities make them smile and giggle. We received responses from 31 people.
In spring 2021 Artist Will Datson met virtually with three of those participants to gain a greater insight into types of play and equipment they enjoy, the opportunities and obstacles they encounter with traditional play interventions. As part of this process Will has found many ways to bring the participants closer to the design and create a stronger ‘dialogue’, which honestly reflects their desires and needs, making them co-designers.
Potter & Ponder: Play is for all to enjoy, but in particular for people who might not otherwise be able to engage with traditional play equipment. Time spent outdoors has a profoundly positive affect on everyone’s mental health; through this project we want to ensure everyone can enjoy play areas and continue to empower our local audience to create wonderful experiences with us, for all to enjoy.
We invite you to explore the installation, affectionately named ‘Pup’. Take a seat, pause for a moment, and discover all the sensory delights within. The new equipment is located in the Wild play area. It is accessible by wheelchair users and their companions.
The project is funded by Arts Council England, National Trust, The Elmley Foundation, and a private donor.