Play is a powerful thing. It can change behaviour; transform perceptions of space; reveal histories and futures; provoke meaningful responses to social and environmental challenges; and inspire audiences to participate and contribute, rather than simply observe. Inspired by projects such as HeHe’s Nuage Vert and Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s Nave Solar, Watershed and the British Council are creating a number of opportunities for artists to create new ideas on the theme of The Playable City.

The Playable City Sprint was the first project in this series. It enabled twelve artists from across the UK and East Asia to spend a week in February 2012, developing collaborative ideas within the supportive environment of the Pervasive Media Studio. We’re now pleased to announce our second event, The Playable City Ideas Lab, which will take place this May in Recife, Brazil.

The Ideas Lab will run as part of Expoideia, an innovative event focused on culture, technology and sustainability. We’re inviting 60-70 Pernambuco based practitioners from varied disciplines such as art, design, technology and city planning, to spend a lively afternoon collaboratively developing playful, hypothetical interventions that rethink public space. With an emphasis on exchange and openness, the Lab will encourage participants to generate imaginative, meaningful ideas, consider local and global contexts, consider the role and application of digital technologies within culture and society, and make valuable connections with Watershed and other participants.

I’m busy making plans to head out there with Studio Resident Tim Kindberg and Playable City Sprint participant Julian Sykes. Between us, we’ll cook up and deliver an inspirational event, which will form the basis for exciting future programmes between the UK and Brazil.