The exhibition 'Just Playin' Around' at Portland State University’s Jordan Schnitzer Museum features works by 11 international artists exploring the theme of play. Curators Theo and Nancy Downes-Le Guin emphasize that play is often dismissed in capitalist societies as unproductive. However, historically and sociologically, play serves vital functions in bonding, learning, and problem-solving within cultures. The diverse artworks range from Takashi Murakami's lighthearted prints to Derrick Adams's poignant reinterpretations of cultural figures, encouraging viewers to reconsider the value of play in the face of societal issues.
In industrialized societies, play is 'only worth it if you can monetize it'... This lack of respect for play is the fatal flaw of market-driven societies.
Playing around with no productive goal in sight has been a facet of every civilization...an essential part of forming and maintaining cultures.
Activities that are pointless to capitalism are not necessarily pointless to humanity...play remains a crucial social construct.
The show, featuring 11 international artists, uses play as a vehicle to explore its importance amidst the challenges of modern culture.
Collection
[
|
...
]