Play more!
Amanda Pyun
In this thesis, I explore theories and subtypes of play through interdisciplinary research in psychology, child
development, theater, and art. I examine how capitalist, social, and cultural structures inhibit play while identifying
conditions that foster it. Additionally, I analyze works by various artists, including myself, who embody a playful
attitude, offering insights on how to cultivate playfulness in our lives and empower others to do the same.
2025, digital
Video games are one of my favorite ways to play. It’s how I bond with friends, express myself, and challenge myself. Konami is a staple of the video game industry, so I reimagined its logo as two figures playing and dancing with each other. This project demonstrates my skills in After Effects, particularly my transitions, playful concepts, and bouncy movement.
2025, digital, paint, and ink
Stung! is a book I wrote and illustrated about an insect bite/sting remedy product called the bug bite thing. I drew the illustrations digitally, printed them, and then Japanese stitched them to a hand-painted cover. I added interactive elements, such as a bee that bounces on a spring and an oversized bee pop-up, to give the reader an immersive glimpse into Sandra’s perspective. This book demonstrates my ability to say a lot in few words and simple drawings, build a touching story around a unique object, and use type and perspective in lively ways.
A look inside the pop-uppage
2025, fabric, tissue, and safety pins
I pushed the boundaries of delicate fabric and sharp pins to explore my stance on play in an unobvious way.
2025, photography
My local park is often overflowing with excited energy from dozens of dogs playing wildly. I love to visit them to regain that sense of freedom and pure fun. I captured this ultra-zoomed-in photo of blue fibers that I can only assume were once part of a dog toy. Sometimes, to be played with is to be destroyed.