Jess Bain, former PhotoVoice training attendee, writes about her upcoming exhibition exploring the important role that adventure playgrounds have on young people in London.
Wild and Free on Our Adventure Playgrounds documents the creativity, agency, and connection nurtured on adventure playgrounds. Inspired by PhotoVoice, this exhibition showcases photographs and stories by children, young people, and playworkers from Islington Play Association.
The collection offers a glimpse into the magic of these spaces – where children build, invent, and collaborate in an ever-changing landscape of play. Here, children feel a deep sense of belonging to one another, their playworkers, and the playground itself:
“It’s not just a playground, it has meaning. All the kids and workers make it more” (Andreas, playground adventurer).
In a world where children are so often monitored and regulated, the playgrounds give them freedom to take risks, face fears, and discover what they are made of: “being free gives you space to grow” (Lizzie, playground adventurer).
Adventure playgrounds have long been vital, free, child-led spaces rooted in community, yet they face ongoing threats from austerity and cuts. This exhibition not only celebrates the joy and freedom they bring, but also highlights the essential role of playworkers and the urgent need to protect and sustain them for future generations.
“The baby in the middle shows that we are caring. When he comes to the
playground, the kids and adults look after and play with him.”
