One of the central themes in my work from an early point has been the idea that the creative process is similar to playing. In my own projects I often try to develop an environment or situation where the viewer/user can experience the piece by playing with it and by doing so becomes a part of the creative process itself.
The design firm IDEO also places the relationship between creativity, ideas, innovation and play at the core of its philosophy. Tim Brown’s TED talk ‘On Creativity and Play’ is especially insightful on this topic. One of the central ideas put forward in the talk is that when you’re playing you are more open and relaxed and ideas flow much more easily. I think you’re probably also more willing and able to learn new skills and understand complex concepts in a playful state. Based on this we should all try to incorporate play into our work and work environment.