Playing House is about directing, role patterns and change. Which consciously and unconsciously acquired rules are imposed upon children? Which ones do they want to follow, and which do they want to discard? This exhibition zooms in on things we don't usually notice: words carved into school desks, imaginary friends, noises that say more than words.
The show invites visitors young and old – and everyone in between – to explore how imagination can be a tool, not as a means for escape, but for breaking open fixed structures. Capabilities like daydreaming, experimenting and taking initiative are often suppressed in times of turmoil and tension. Playing House deliberately makes space for practising, protecting and celebrating these skills.
In 2021, the Groninger Museum was the first museum in the Netherlands to organize a children's biennial. Playing House is the third edition of this recurring art event. The Biennale Kids, a group of actively involved children, contributed to the exhibition. Their influence can be seen in a number of the artworks on display.
With works by: Mercedes Azpilicueta, afra eisma, Petrit Halilaj, Eva Kot’átková, Lina Lapelytė, sophie serber, Ola Vasiljeva.
Curator: Judith Spijksma