As the Embracing Circularity series has evolved, so has our commitment to sustainability. We don’t just think about the function of each item but also its entire lifecycle. We strive to ensure our clothes last as long as possible and are transformed into a valuable resource at the end of their life.
These principles of circularity merge with Play Up’s very genuine practice, which translates into a “slow and simple” lifestyle where less is more. The desire for the imperfect, the original, and the unique extends to the appreciation of handmade things, representing the slowness and individuality of those who create.
‘Clay Therapy’ is the unique inspiration behind our new Spring/Summer collection. It’s a form of art that allows us to express our conscious and unconscious ideas and desires in a silent, yet powerful way.
Madalena Telo is our guest artist. Born among ceramists, her practice is distinguished by its authenticity. Her roots materialise in every pore of her pieces. She extracts the clay from the Monchique mountains in southern Portugal and works it by hand, constantly exploring natural shapes and textures. She likes to create practical pieces but with a sculptural edge.
Our collaboration with ‘Clay Therapy’ has deepened our understanding of its mental health benefits. The act of sculpting and moulding clay not only stimulates creativity but also promotes self-awareness and relieves anxiety, offering a powerful non-verbal channel of self-expression.
This theme inspired the creation of a collection that stands out for the harmony of colours, shapes, and illustrations, in tune with a full state of mind that allows us to get out of our heads and connects us with joyful and fun experiences.
To enhance this purpose, Madalena has created two pieces to awaken our senses: a watercolour palette in stoneware, with natural pigments collected in the Monchique mountains, and a stoneware diffuser for essential oils. These pieces incorporate Re(Play) yarns from our waste and surplus raw materials from this collection.
When we mould clay, we interact with the earth to create something that never existed.
At Play Up, we are also constantly creating new things, always remembering our responsibility and deep respect for nature.