Concepts and Uses of Play at Museums: Expectations, Affordances, and Practices

Abstract

This paper explores the meaning and uses of play at museums by adult visitors. It is based on an ethnographic research process that took place at the Trapholt museum in Kolding (Denmark). The modern art museum is the central focus for observing and learning about play uses and meanings in these cultural institutions. The collected data is contrasted and analyzed using relevant literature on the topics of play at museums and visitor’s vision and expectations. The results lead to a comparison and discussion of the play offer by museum institutions, the visitors’ vision, and the real use of play at museums. The paper reflects upon the possibilities and difficulties of using the full potential of play and its value as an engaging and enhancing tool for museums and visitors.

Presenters

Maria Vitaller Del Olmo
Design Researcher, Service Design Lab, Aalborg University Copenhagen, Denmark

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Design in Society

KEYWORDS

Museum, Experience, Play, Design, Ethnography, Visitor, Experience Design, Play Design