During this project, I attempted to create three very different playthings, each with its own charm and interaction.
Push Pull #1
For this object, the main interaction I had in mind was to create a simple spherical shape with adjustable limbs that could be pulled from either direction smoothly. To accomplish this, I began with the spherical base using a baseball pattern and then incorporated tunnels within it using a white tarp (for smoothness) and a lot of hand stitching. The tunnels were very difficult to conceptualize, especially considering that there are two, but it worked out surprisingly well!
Push Pull #2
For this creature, my idea was to manipulate the basic form of a cone, and scrunch it up with string in a way that it could resemble a mole rat sort of creature. I used loud string so that the viewer can see how the form was made, and the uncut ends resemble whiskers. I added stuffed human-like hands to make it feel unnatural and a bit uncomfortable, but counteracted it with a soft scarf and button. Although she is a bit off-putting at first, people really warm up to her.
Push Pull #3
For my final object, I decided to realize a dream of creating a giant huggable carrot the size of me (or taller!). Considering the amount of fabric I would need, I went to the thrift store to get some used orange and green dresses and skirts. Using used fabric ended up dictating many of the formal qualities of my object, from its proportions to the details that I strategically placed, such as the pockets and the zipper. Making use of the forms and features of the original garments gave this piece a lot more character than I had originally imagined.
Thank you!