OUT NOW! New Playground Issue 5!
new features, glossy paper, collaborations & more
Playground readers,
Playground Issue 5 is here, and we’re so excited to finally share what we’ve been working on 🪁. As I mention in my editor-in-chief letter, this issue got a little bigger!! It introduces a new city feature – read along to find out which city made it in this time – adds an extra 16 pages on glossy paper for a special feature, and brings back the beloved Playground playlist.
So, what’s inside Playground Issue 5? Let’s dive in!
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
Essays on speculative writing, why ideas are like Monobloc chairs, refusal as creative practice, the allure of old-school gaming aesthetics, and more
Our new city guide – Cities as playgrounds – exploring Finland’s capital Helsinki
A deep dive into the world of workwear, along with the reveal of our latest workwear collaboration
Conversations with creatives: artist Oliviero Fiorenzi, creative entrepreneur Carla Camilla Hjort, and more
Plus, more Play – reader favourites including The CV of failed projects, The culture shelf, insights on the new local economy, and “play breaks” that invite readers to think along the way
The cover of Playground Issue 5, created by Antti Kalevi, a Finnish artist and illustrator, merges fragments of the magazine’s content into one composition.
Using ink and markers, Kalevi experimented with texture and looseness – keeping it playful and open, guided by instinct to see what might emerge.
To the curious souls, thank you! For reading, supporting, and giving us feedback. As always, nearly every piece in this magazine has been created by a different contributor – people we have met through open calls or reached out to directly. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who took part! Playground is, and will always be, a community effort.
Housekeeping
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If you like what we do, the biggest support is picking up our print magazine or merch – it keeps the Playground alive.
A small gesture goes a long way. If you liked what you read, share it with a friend, subscribe to our newsletter, drop us a reply, join the comments – or simply give it a like. Every feedback keeps us moving.
Thanks for reading,
Auste & Playground team
Ooh, this looks amazing!!! hit me up if you do Berlin!
Can’t wait to read! Esp the Helsinki feature 🥰