In today’s modern society, one’s carefully constructed identity and the perfection of intelligence are two pillar that have driven social values.But we seem to forget how to play freely. As George Bernard Shaw stated, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
The existence of playground get overshadowed by other priorities,when clearly “play” stimulates cognitive function and emotional resilience at any age.Playground,mostly solely associated with children recreation. Meanwhile,it should be reimagined as spaces for adults and elderly to foster creativity and social bond once again.
My grandparents spent a vast majority of their morning in the playground which awakens a symphony of youthful enthusiasm.Apart from exercising their muscle,machines that were designed for accessibility with gentle resistance.The balance equipment reminded them the importance of stability,the air filled with encouragement when they steady and wobble themselves on the equipment.They go on swings gently pushing each other back.Climbing on bumpy rocks, sliding down the sides together even though they didn’t fit.On the track of innocence ,spreading creativity with the sun on the swing.Behind them I followed, my smile appeared unconsciously.They both walked confidently to the elderly fitness corner where they are join by the chorus of laughter and jokes.Each of them holding onto a cane or sitting on a wheelchair, all sparkled with excitement.It was a plain moment but one filled with warmth and love.With the merge of colors, textures and sounds that beckon the public to partake in the daily ritual of play.
grandparent exercising with the facility in the playground
Here,they generate effortless laughter with a pure heart.I see the company of wildflowers,the flecks of rainbow gloss mirrored in raindrops.The wind through the tree is the whispering of teenagers.As the day progresses,the playground publicly takes on a new role.It became a communal dining area where friends share meals and stories. Nearby ,a group of kid are engaged in a game of TAG, darting around the climbing structure, some falling lightly on the rubber mat.The faint scent of snacks add to the atmosphere.At noon, it serves as a sanctuary for reflection and contemplation.The sound of laughter begin to fade, replaced by the rusting of busy traffic.I have witnessed arguments being solved and held, the first step of a baby, the injuries that occurred and the chase and catch in the playground.
grandpa came back from the playground
This is a classroom without doors nor window,where memories are learned through accident and victory.It’s where children develop imagination with conflict and social skills.It’s a humble ground for adults where they discover childhood again.A gentle reminder of resilience that comes from facing life.An underlying sense of community are built as they foster communication.
As they aged ,i got more certain of where they were when they are missing.Without a fail,I found both of them sitting on a bench inside the playground.The children with their unfiltered energy had reignited a spark within them.I sat with my grandparents quietly,simply observing every individual in this realm.The tree seemed to listen with its gnarled roots and soil offering shade and comfort.Unfortunately,they passed away in 2020.The playground had become a bridge between our family where memories and comfort transcended through time.I am not just an observer anymore but a part of the magic,buoyed by every energy they left behind.
This patch of enchanted land accept our tired bodies,and yet our spirit remain buoyant.It is a living monument to vitality of childhood.The simple act of play becomes a profound act of self love and discovery,a sanctuary of dreams for the young at heart.
Moodboard
The first glance of the playground, there are always elderly with children.Whom might be fighting over the swing, stepping on the stair climber or maybe queuing for the spinner.The fitness corner are filled with elderly chatting about their day, joyfully holding hands just like they once did as children.In all ages, human tends to go back to one places for a bit of peace and relieve.The playground where they breathe and play the most.
roots expanding through the concrete surface of playground
Audio
Sounds I collected surrounding the playground, including people running on wet ground, the wait under the traffic light, emptiness in the tunnel, a kick of football hitting against the wall. Suprisingly, we never question which facilities are providing these exact sound under what circumstances or activities.The sound of playground exist in the most ordinary and yet significant way.
Film
References
The rise of the adult playground. (2012). BBC News. [online] 23 Apr. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-17818223.[Accessed 10 Nov. 2024].
Traverso, V. (n.d.). The cities designing playgrounds for the elderly. [online] www.bbc.com. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20191028-the-cities-designing-playgrounds-for-the-elderly.[Accessed 10 Nov. 2024].
Tan, J. (2022). A Singaporean in China: Don’t take free playgrounds for granted. [online] ThinkChina – Big reads, Opinion & Columns on China. Available at: https://www.thinkchina.sg/society/singaporean-china-dont-take-free-playgrounds-granted [Accessed 10 Nov. 2024].
XAV (2024). I’m an Adult, and I demand a Playground! – XAV – Medium. [online] Medium. Available at: https://xuliaxav.medium.com/im-an-adult-and-i-demand-a-playground-bfa4782b0534 [Accessed 15 Nov. 2024].
