Play Power explores the concept of play in human cultures. Part of the Sainsbury Centre’s What is the Meaning of Life? season, this exhibition reflects on the broader significance of play, and how play is integrated into our daily lives. It asks whether we would live a more meaningful life if play were a central focus of day-to-day living.
Showcasing a variety of manifestations of play, both past and present, ranging from board games, games of chance, physical activity, creativity, video games and make believe, as well as ritual gambling and divination, Play Power highlights the enduring role of play in shaping human societies.
The exhibition includes historical objects and artworks such as an ancient Egyptian senet board and game pieces, William Hogarth’s paintings A House of Cards (c.1730) and A Children’s Tea Party (1730), Germaine Richier’s Chessboard, Large Version (1959) and iconic toys, such as Bird and Fish, designed by Patrick Rylands. Work by artists including André Breton, Eileen Agar, John Armstrong, Leo Robinson, Sir John Lavery and Lygia Clark is also on display.
Play Power is part of the Sainsbury Centre’s What is the Meaning of Life? exhibition season and is curated by Tania Moore, Head of Exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre.