Play Passages is a participatory multi-media installation/performance for kids and adults about the nature of childhood play, freedom and risk, at Trinity Bellwoods park in Toronto, on Monday, June 25th from 4-8pm.

Play Passages transforms adults' childhood outdoor play memories into an interactive installation animated by children.

My initial research and creation invited adults to share a favourite childhood memory of playing outside at public performances in Toronto, Etobicoke, and New York City in 2017. After writing a story on a postcard, people closed their eyes and drew a map of its location. (Drawing blind encouraged the adults to let go and play themselves). Then, eyes opened, they painted their map, and added their story to the project. Next, I photographed where some of those memories took place on Google Earth and StreetView, transforming them using a macro lens, and evoking the watercolour map as well as the original memory.

Play Passages will be a magical ephemeral environment where children ages 6 and up will play with the adults’ memories in the form of the photographs printed on large pieces of fabric, and combined with rope, sticks and other simple building materials. 

While the children make the installation come to life, adults will watch from outside the space while listening to an immersive audio piece inspired by the memories the children are playing with. They will also be able to view and read the original collected watercolours and stories.

Play Passages, produced with Earth Day Canada’s support, is funded by the Ontario Arts Council - Conseil des arts de l'Ontario
Play Passages is produced in partnership with Earth Day Canada, and is funded by the Ontario Arts Council - Conseil des arts de l'Ontario