Welcome to Imagination Matters.
From the first mark on a cave wall to the first footsteps on the Moon, our greatest developments have begun with leaps of someone’s imagination. Imagination is the cornerstone of creativity, problem solving and innovation. It is an essential skill for life.
We find ourselves at a turning point in our history – the increasing speed in which the world is changing means that the future is more uncertain than ever before. It is our turn to create the world we wish to see. Imagination has never been more important.
Yet throughout the world, imagination is being overlooked and undervalued. Opportunities to imagine, explore and experiment without predetermined outcomes are increasingly rare. In a 24-hour society, children and adult’s lives are often over-scheduled. We’re under constant pressure to succeed at school, work and life.
Every child is born with an immense capacity for imagination. We need a climate in which it can be nurtured and thrive.
What is Imagination Matters?
Imagination Matters is a campaign powered by the Institute of Imagination and exists to champion this shift and challenge the common preconception that imagination is nothing more than a frivolous pastime.
Here you will find articles, blogs, images and videos that showcase the importance of imagination across sectors and in everyday life. You’ll read stories from people you may be familiar with alongside others who may be new to you. Every one a real-life example of just how and why Imagination Matters.
If you’ve found your way to this site you may already be aware of the importance of imagination. You may live and breathe this knowledge and be looking for further reading. Or, this may be the first time you’ve come across the concept. Perhaps you’re struck by a new thought and would like to learn more.
Whoever you are, and whatever you do, we hope you’ll find something here that interests you.
We also invite you to join in and contribute. Imagination Matters is not designed to be a one way conversation, it is intended to change perceptions through conversations. Together we can create a climate that allows all generations to imagine freely.
Imagination Matters in action
In addition to this website, Institute of Imagination programmes events which explore the themes you’ll discover here. We also run an annual Cultural Residency which takes place at the Imagination Lab, London’s only space dedicated to the Imagination. The residency invites an individual or collective to respond to one of the themes and work with our Imagination Lab visitors to develop a collaborative exploration of the theme.
Read more about the first residency, Super City, which explored Places to Imagine. The current theme we’re exploring is Empathy. Visit the Institute of Imagination website for the latest news and events.
Who are Institute of Imagination?
Institute of Imagination (iOi) is a charity creating space to re-imagine our world, together. Our goal is to spark imaginations everywhere, supporting skills development, innovation and wellbeing through our events, training, partnerships and research. We are for the benefit of all, with children and families at our heart. Find out more about us on our website.