Real Play

Opens May 12

Playfulness is a serious business. It sparks creativity, relieves stress and strengthens relationships. It even fuels brain development. This exhibition is a celebration of all that. It’s fun, colourful, tactile, eye-opening proof that play belongs to everyone, everywhere – even in a museum.

Play by your own rules

Play and playfulness mean different things to different people. While one person is having the time of their life, someone else may not be enjoying themselves at all. Knowing this, IKEA creates products and solutions that inspire a more playful everyday life for all – regardless of age or what sparks playfulness. The same idea is at the heart of this exhibition. Here, you can make magic and explore the unknown, win some and lose some, let off steam – or simply lean back and let your mind wander. The only rule? Play your way!

The science of play

Even if our playfulness is triggered by different things, we all benefit from the effects of play. In Real Play, you don’t only get to play around – you also discover why play matters. Research shows that play releases feel-good hormones like dopamine and endorphins, and reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels. It even stimulates brain development. And there’s plenty more to discover.

Playfulness through the ages

Play has most likely been a part of human society since our first ancestors roamed the earth. Archaeological records trace the origins of play back thousands of years. For obvious reasons, IKEA hasn’t been promoting play for quite that long. But play has been part of the company’s DNA from day one. Founder Ingvar Kamprad championed curiosity, creativity and innovation – attitudes to life and work that can only thrive where there’s room to play. In this exhibition, you’ll discover more about the history of play, both broadly and from a perspective that’s specific to IKEA.