ABSTRACT
Play has been identified as a critical education process that supports young children’s cognitive, social, emotional and physical development. The Early Years Atelier, or children’s art studio, was first created by the Whitworth’s Learning and Engagement team in its opening year of 2015. During 2014 the Whitworth building underwent the largest physical transformation in its 125-year history with a £15 million capital project that saw the gallery open up its spaces, inside and outside, making the building more welcoming to the diverse communities that surround it. The Atelier is a place where babies, toddlers and preschoolers can get messy, play creatively and follow their own interests. The Early Years Atelier was designed with the aim of creating a space to engage young visitors with the Whitworth’s art collection, its buildings and park, through hands-on play that explores ideas, materials and techniques.
