V&A DUNDEE
RULES OF PLAY

Inspired by the pioneering educational principles of Friedrich Froebel, who emphasized learning through play and interaction, artist Gabriella Marcella created the vibrant installation Rules of Play. Composed of 200 oversized wooden blocks in bold, colorful stains, the installation invites viewers to engage with its playful forms.

Old School Fabrications were commissioned to source, machine, stain and construct these various timber forms. Each plank was meticulously crafted to the precise ratio of 1:3:15 and stained in five complementary tones. A key challenge was ensuring the blocks appeared effortlessly balanced, without visible fixings, while maintaining structural stability and safety. Solving this challenge was a rewarding aspect of the project, allowing us to contribute to a fun and imaginative installation

Gabriella plans to repurpose the blocks for future projects, reconfiguring them to create new and exciting installations.