Playground Magazine
Issue 2
ABOUT THE CLIENT
Playground is a fresh, bi-annual independent magazine for imaginative minds created by studio playground. Featuring thought-provoking essays, engaging conversations and an assortment of “creative quickies”, it’s an honest, and at times, opinionated exploration of the creative mind and process.
YEAR
2024
SERVICES
Strategy & Conception
Creative Direction & Design
Content Commissioning
Content Creation & Management
Communication
Publishing & Distribution
ABOUT THE ISSUE 2
After the warm reception of Playground Issue 1, the second edition of studio playground’s independent magazine set out to build on early momentum by reaching broader audiences and deepening its editorial ambition. Published in spring 2024, Playground Issue 2 delves into the themes of nostalgia, memory and childhood – exploring how formative experiences shape creativity, from individual expression to collective culture.
As a self-initiated project with no prior publishing background, the release of Issue 2 presented new challenges – from increased print volume and international distribution to commissioning contributors from a wider creative network across Europe. Despite the hurdles, the result was a refined and confident publication: 13 contributors, 4 in-depth interviews and two new recurring sections. Together, they offered honest, opinionated and curious perspectives – staying true to Playground’s editorial soul.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Expanded creative reach – new contributors, topics and features aimed to engage a wider European creative community
International distribution push – scaled up production and reach with Issue 2 now available in 22 countries, 33 cities and 47 stores
Resonant editorial theme – Issue 2 explored memory, nostalgia and playfulness – tapping into topics relevant across creative disciplines
Industry visibility – invited talks at MagCulture Live and Monocle’s The Stack positioned Playground as a serious voice in independent publishing
“In the issue’s thoughtfully curated pages exploring the notion of nostalgia, memory, and childhood, I found a reassuring sense that my own work – however niche – held resonance and significance.”
60% of Issue 2 sold out within the first month of launch
Issues stocked at notable stores including Do You Read Me?! (Berlin), MagCulture (London), and Casa Magazines (New York)
Participated in Indiecon, the leading event for the independent magazine scene
Created new sections including “5 Insights” and “Curio” to evolve content structure
Continued building a strong visual and narrative identity around honesty, curiosity and creative experimentation
Attended “MagCulture Live” & presented Playground’s ideation and creation process
Playground founder, Auste Skrupskyte was invited to speak at Monocle’s famous podcast – The Stack, where she spoke more about the studio and Issue 2