Playground Magazine #5

Playground is the magazine that dares to explore, question, and re-envision the creative industries. Through thought-provoking essays, reports, and bold, honest conversations, it’s where curiosity meets play and inspiration. Packed full of smart insights and egoless advice, Playground is a must-read for those working in, or curious about, Europe’s vibrant creative and cultural sectors.

About Issue 5

The fifth, 128-page issue of Playground brings together creatives from all across Europe – writers, illustrators, photographers, and artists – to map the current state of creativity across the continent and beyond. 

Inside, you’ll find a report on the importance of play, alongside essays exploring topics such as speculative writing, why ideas are like monobloc chairs, refusal as a creative practice, and the enduring appeal of old-school gaming aesthetics. The issue also introduces our new city guide, Cities as Playgrounds, which takes readers through Finland’s capital, Helsinki, from the perspective of play and exploration. In addition, it features a deep dive into the world of workwear, including the unveiling of our latest workwear collaboration.

You’ll also discover conversations with creatives, including artist Oliviero Fiorenzi and creative entrepreneur Carla Camilla Hjort, as well as many other inspiring voices. The publication further includes reader-favourite sections such as The CV of Failed Projects, The Culture Shelf, reflections on the emerging local economy, and a series of “play breaks” designed to encourage readers to pause, reflect, and engage with the ideas throughout the issue.

Across essays, data, and dialogue, Issue 5investigates the invisible economy that powers creativity, asking what it takes to keep it fair, connected, and alive – and the role of  experimentation and play in helping to shape what comes next.