‘Play is the real engine of learning’, an exhibition that our Artist-In-Resident Francesca Cant curated and also exhibited in, along with 4 other artists. The exhibition was situated in the Crypt at Norwich School; it ran from 2nd-6th February and challenged the relationship between play and learning.

“ ‘Play is the real engine of learning’ brings together five artists playful practices, exploring the idea of play in its broadest sense.

Kelly Briggs has limited her play to a single colour, exploring new manifestations of ideas in which orange, her colour of choice, takes an undeniable precedence. Joseph Doubtfire’s sculptural and object-oriented play negotiates an instinctive and primitive weaving of materials. Both Briggs and Doubtfire are interested in potential and uncertainty, objects which in their abstract forms imply a panoply of ideas, and questions which invite only more questions. Francesca Cant, interested in the antithesis to the ‘Do Not Touch’ attitude towards contemporary display, explores touch, sense and the negotiation of space. Nicole Hudson’s work, commencing with objects and materials, is brought to life by people. Both Cant and Hudson’s work, through instruction, however implicit, invites play in a participatory sense. Graphic designer Sarah Blome has designed the exhibition poster and cover of this publication. “ – Francesca Cant