Barbican welcomes Playgrounds’ In Motion Festival 2025 as doors open for a two day celebration of animation and motion design
The Barbican welcomes Playgrounds’ In Motion Festival today, returning for a second year and expanding across the Centre to celebrate the latest in animation, motion design, and cutting-edge digital creativity.
Building on its 2024 debut at the venue, this year’s edition is expected to host more than 2,000 delegates per day in the Barbican Hall, Cinema 1, and across the foyers, with new interactive activations and networking spaces that create a more immersive experience.
“In Motion is a natural fit for the Barbican, aligning with our commitment to champion the creative industries and foster innovation. After such a strong first year together, we are excited to welcome Playgrounds back, to scale the experience, and to deliver something even more impactful for audiences and partners,” said Glenn Mainwaring, Business Development Manager at the Barbican.
“The Barbican is not just a venue, it is an icon. Their team has been instrumental in making In Motion an outstanding experience for speakers and attendees. The professionalism, support, and expertise of the technical and events teams made it an easy decision to return in 2025,” said Leon van Rooij of Playgrounds.
Across two days, the festival brings world class talks from leading figures in motion design, animation, and digital art, alongside engagement pieces and activations in the foyers. The 2025 event grows from a successful 2024 edition at the Barbican, which brought together trailblazing artists and makers and showcased the Centre’s production capabilities and role as a creative catalyst for London.
The event continues the Barbican’s momentum as a home for major design and creativity gatherings, and underscores the venue’s ability to connect headline content with informal spaces that encourage community, discovery, and collaboration.
