The Value of Play in the Creative Process

Play is often perceived as non-pragmatic, yet it is an essential driver of creativity across all design disciplines. This panel explores the transformative power of play in design thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Faculty from diverse design fields will share insights into how play fosters experimentation, unlocks new perspectives, and encourages risk-taking in the creative process. We will examine how structured and unstructured play methodologies can be integrated into design education and professional practice to enhance ideation, collaboration, and user-centered outcomes. By embracing play as a strategic tool rather than an afterthought, educators can encourage failure as part of the process, as well as cultivate more adaptable, intuitive, and engaging student solutions. This discussion invites students, educators, and practitioners alike to reconsider the role of play in shaping the future of design.

This panel is seeking representatives from all design disciplines – including, but not limited to, architecture, graphic design, industrial design, textile design, fashion design, interior design, product design and interaction design – to contribute to this conversation.