During our recent Senior School Open Evening, the art department introduced an exciting activity for our visitors. “Ostranenie” is not just a board game; it’s an interactive journey into creativity and imagination!
Developed as part of Mr Lockhart’s PhD research thesis, the game takes its name from the literary concept of “defamiliarisation,” a technique that makes the familiar seem strange, sparking new perspectives. In Ostranenie, players are guided through prompts and scenarios, immersed in a world of fun and playfulness that challenges them to rethink conventional approaches and engage in lateral thinking. Introducing elements of absurdity and playfulness helps break down rigid thought patterns and encourages participants to generate fresh, often unconventional ideas. What sets Ostranenie apart is its unique ability to transform seemingly silly or outlandish ideas into practical solutions.
As players engage with the game’s creative prompts, they experience moments of surprise and discovery, unlocking new perspectives on familiar problems. These imaginative leaps can be applied in various contexts, from everyday challenges to innovative approaches in education, business, or design. By making the process fun and interactive, Ostranenie creates an environment where ideas flow freely, without the inhibitions often associated with formal mind-mapping methods. In Ostranenie, players are invited to make the mundane unfamiliar through playful disruptions, generating new, creative solutions. This method encourages participants to go beyond surface-level thinking and explore the deeper potential of an idea or concept.
In the current educational paradigm, there is a growing recognition of the importance of fostering imagination, play, and ‘considered uncertainty ‘. Both students and staff benefit from activities that encourage exploration without the fear of failure or judgment. Ostranenie, by introducing play into problem-solving, allows participants to embrace uncertainty, experiment with ideas, and develop critical thinking skills in a relaxed, enjoyable environment.
