PLAYTIME 0.2; A Mental Health Experiment

“Playtime” is an interactive mental health awareness art show designed to refresh and energize everyone involved. This event combines collaborative art and curated DJ sets to create an immersive space that inspires healing, connection, and creativity. By inviting viewers to complete the artwork, the show transforms passive observation into active participation, encouraging self-expression and mindfulness.

In a society where mental health often felt like a silent struggle, creatives like Adeyemi Emmanuel stepped up to create spaces where people could talk, heal, and feel seen. This second edition of Playtime was a mental health awareness experiment hosted in his studio, it was a blend of creativity, vulnerability, and community to tackle the complexities of mental well-being in a way that felt real and relatable.

The project mixed visual storytelling, interactive activities, and open conversations about mental health struggles, self-care, and how creativity can be a lifeline during tough times. By framing mental health awareness as a form of “play,” Emmanuel made the topic feel less intimidating and more approachable. 

But what really made Playtime 0.2 stand out was its use of electronic music to set the mood. The beats, rhythms, and soundscapes weren’t just background noise – they were part of the journey. The music added depth, emotion, and a sense of calm, helping viewers connect with their feelings in a way words alone couldn’t.

   And here’s where it got even more special: the NoNewFriends collective (NNF) came on board to bring the sound to life. NNF, known for their innovative and soulful approach to music, worked closely with playtime studio to create soundscapes that perfectly matched the project’s vibe. Their collaboration wasn’t just about adding music – it was about deepening the emotional experience. Together, they created something that felt alive, something that resonated with anyone who watched and listened. 

Key Themes in Playtime 0.2 

1. Creativity as Therapy: The project showed how art – whether painting, writing, or just doodling – could be a way to process emotions and find healing.  
2. Breaking the Stigma: By sharing personal stories and encouraging open conversations, Playtime 0.2 made it okay to talk about mental health without shame.  
3. Community and Connection: It reminded us that we’re not alone in our struggles and that healing often happens together.  
4. Play as a Healing Tool:  The playtime studio brought back the idea of play – not just as something for kids, but as a way to reconnect with joy and curiosity, even when life feels heavy.  
5. The Power of Music: The electronic beats and soundscapes, crafted by NNF, added a layer of emotion that made the experience unforgettable.  
6. Collaboration at Its Best: The partnership between Playtime Studio and NNF showed how magic happens when creative minds come together.

Those who tuned into @theplaytimestudio’s YouTube channel and experienced Playtime 0.2 weren’t just passive viewers – they were part of the journey. They joined in the activities, reflected on the discussions, and shared their own stories. It became a movement, a reminder that healing isn’t a solo act – it’s something we do together.  

So, thank you, the playtime studio and the NoNewFriends collective, for creating something so real and so needed. You reminded us that mental health isn’t just a conversation – it’s a journey, and sometimes, the best way through it is with a little play, a lot of creativity, and the right soundtrack to guide us.  

watch playtime 0.2

ThePlaytimeStudio Team.