Monster Playground, a collaborative creation by artists Darbotz and the creative studio Mahavisual, not only takes adults on a nostalgic trip back to childhood but also delivers boundless joy to children

by Patricia Lanzagarita
Photos courtesy of Darbotz and Mahavisual
December 15, 2023

While playgrounds have become a routine for children, many adults miss out on the joy they bring due to various circumstances, such as early maturity, heavy responsibilities, and financial burdens.

Now, as people, even children, appreciate art for its visual and emotional appeal, artists leverage their platforms to communicate messages of uniqueness and cheerfulness.

In the pursuit of blending art with the environment and playful pursuits, artist Darbotz and creative studio Mahavisual unveiled their inaugural art installation: a playground titled 'Monster Playground' at the Bintaro Jaya Xchange Mall (BXc Park) in Indonesia.

Concept and inspiration

Darbotz introduced the squid character named 'Cumi' in 2004, symbolizing resilience amid life's chaos. His works, centered around this concept, have consistently infused happiness and cheerfulness into visual arts.

In 'Monster Playground,' he translates Cumi's jauntiness and peculiarity into a tangible experience. The playground weaves a new story inspired by Darbotz's global recognition in countries like South Korea, Japan, France, Hong Kong, and Australia.

More than just a play area

Monster Playground, beyond being a play area, serves as a nostalgic avenue for adults and a source of boundless happiness for children. With its soft, cartoon-like, vibrant visuals, it sparks imagination.

Darbotz emphasizes that a playground should be a platform for exploration, where both children and adults can enjoy multiple activities simultaneously. "A playground is an exploration arena where there will always be many new and enjoyable things—an arena that can always be explored as a new adventure," says the artist.

The playground embodies the everyday lives of children, using contrasting and resembling colors found in kids' drawings, forming the core beauty and deep essence of the play area—all conveyed through art.

In the eyes of children

Viewing the world through the eyes of children is captured in this installation, allowing guests to appreciate simplicity, a concept children cherish, and experience various emotions, such as happiness. Monster Playground is poised to become a cherished memory for children due to its striking designs and the joy it brings.

Celebrating children and their playfulness through creativity creates an unforgettable experience for kids and a sense of comfort for adults reconnecting with their inner child. Monster Playground exemplifies the role of art in our daily lives, encouraging people to embrace beauty and substance