A groundbreaking international exhibition that explores the connection between society, art, and design through the lens of play is coming to the Incinerator Gallery in Melbourne’s west.
The Playground Project is making its much-anticipated southern hemisphere debut from 28 June to 12 October 2025, bringing a bold new vision of playground design to Australian audiences.
Already a sensation across Europe, the UK, and the US, The Playground Project showcases the history of playgrounds as spaces of innovation, experimentation, and collaboration between artists, architects, city planners, and activists. This Australian-first iteration will not only highlight key international playground designs but also feature visionary local case studies and three site-specific installations.
One of the exhibition’s most exciting additions is the acquisition of the Lozziwurm Playground by Swiss designer Yvan Pestalozzi. This vibrant, twisting, worm-like structure invites children to climb, slide, and explore, blending physical play with artistic expression. Once the exhibition concludes, this beloved piece will remain in Moonee Valley for generations of children to enjoy.
Curated by Swiss urban planner and political scientist Gabriela Burkhalter, alongside Kunsthalle Zürich’s director Daniel Baumann, The Playground Project will transform Incinerator Gallery into a space of imagination, adventure, and social connection.
Designed in collaboration with Melbourne-based BoardGrove Architects, the exhibition will feature large-scale interactive playground installations both inside and outside the gallery, offering a hands-on experience for children and families alike.
Highlighting the importance of play in shaping communities, the exhibition will also include a brand-new First Nations Playable Public Art Commission, ensuring a lasting impact on Melbourne’s public spaces.
City of Moonee Valley Mayor, Ava Adams, said: “Playgrounds are the setting of formative childhood experiences, and we are proud to spotlight the creative and social forces that shape them. This world-class exhibition is the perfect fit for our Incinerator Gallery, a contemporary arts space that belongs to the whole community – young and old.”
The exhibition’s themes of inclusivity and sustainability will be further explored through a partnership with Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA). Professor Mel Dodd, Dean of MADA, emphasizes the importance of thoughtful public play spaces:
“As urban areas become more populated, the need for cleverly designed, inclusive, and sustainable public play spaces is critical. We’re looking forward to bringing our faculty’s creative expertise to this collaboration.”
From historic playground designs to contemporary interactive installations, The Playground Project invites visitors to experience the joy of play and the transformative power of design. With additional details on public programs and educational workshops to be released in the coming months, this exhibition is set to be a must-visit for art lovers, families, and urban design enthusiasts alike.
For more information and to secure early bird tickets, visit playgroundproject.com.au.
