Interactive Playshapes installation transforms Blyth Market Pavilion this summer

Playshapes will transform the town into a giant hands-on playground, giving children and adults the opportunity to create their own sculptures, obstacle courses, towers and imaginative structures within the Market Pavilion.

Designed by Leeds-based contemporary artist Pippa Hale, Playshapes is made up of large precision-cut foam cubes that can be taken apart into a variety of shapes including beams, steps, triangles, curved sections and platforms.

The colourful installation was inspired by the work of renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi and the educational play objects known as Froebel Gifts, encouraging exploration of shape, colour and three-dimensional space through open-ended play.

Unlike traditional playground equipment, Playshapes has no fixed design or outcome. The artwork constantly changes as visitors work together to create new structures that are safe to climb, explore and enjoy.

Mayor of Blyth Town Council, Councillor Mark Peart, said: “We’re delighted to bring Playshapes to Blyth as part of our summer programme.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy free creative play together while experiencing an internationally recognised piece of interactive public art.

“Every visit will be different because every structure is created by the imagination of the people taking part.”

Playshapes will be available for everyone to enjoy in Blyth from 11-16 August.