PLAY spurs productivity.

PLAY is a catalyst for creativity.

PLAY is an escape from conformity.

PLAY reinvents the rules.

PLAY empowers the players.

PLAY stimulates innovation.

PLAY enables exploration.

PLAY is a response to uncertainty.

PLAY rewards misbehavior.

PLAY negotiates conflict.

PLAY resists productivity.

PLAY is _________________.

PlayTime is the first major thematic exhibition celebrating the role of play in contemporary art and culture. Forty works by twenty leading contemporary artists — including large-scale installations, sculpture, photographs, video and tactile interactives — examine how play catalyzes creative expression, enchants the ordinary, and helps us understand ourselves in new ways.

PlayTime artists include: Cory Arcangel, Mark Bradford, Nick Cave, Martin Creed, Lara Favaretto, Cao Fei, Brian Jungen, Teppei Kaneuji, Paul McCarthy, Rivane Neuenschwander, Pedro Reyes, Robin Rhode, Roman Signer, Gwen Smith, Angela Washko, Agustina Woodgate, and Erwin Wurm.

PlayTime is organized by the Peabody Essex Museum and made possible in part by the Nancy B. Tieken Memorial Fund and supporters of the Present Tense Initiative. Carolyn and Peter S. Lynch and The Lynch Foundation provided generous support. The East India Marine Associates of the Peabody Essex Museum provided valuable support.

On view February 10 to May 6, 2018

Click here for more information.