RetroPlay
A series of colourful and bold paper sculptures celebrating nostalgia and the simple joys of childhood gameplay.
This project draws inspiration from the resurging popularity of classic games. Intricately hand-sculpted from coloured paper, I used various paper-sculpting techniques to reimagine iconic game designs such as the Nintendo Gameboy, NES One Console and Sony’s PlayStation One. The sculptures have been created using a six-tone colour palette, evoking vintage design references.
Retro games have a two-fold appeal.
Firstly, classic gameplay found with older games like Super Mario Bros and Donkey Kong have become timeless experiences.
Secondly, gameplay is emotionally associated with happy past experiences, triggering positive emotions for players.
The Game Boy is an 8-bit fourth generation handheld game console developed and manufactured by Nintendo. It was first released in Japan on 21 April 1989, in North America later the same year, and in Europe in late 1990.
RetroPlay Theories.
When people play a game from their childhood or even one that follows the aesthetics of a familiar title, it amplifies pleasure in the brain. The reward pathways are more sensitive in children than in adults. When these childhood games are played as an adult, the pleasure response from the past adds to the current experience.
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is an 8-bit third generation home video game console produced by Nintendo. It’s first iteration, Famicom, was released in Japan in 1983, later redesigned to become the NES and released in American markets on 18 October 1985. The NES features a number of groundbreaking games, such as Super Mario Bros and the Legend of Zelda, which became long-running franchises.
“Achieving success has become a part of our collective identity. This success identifier, triggered while playing childhood games further enhances the experience. Nostalgic play may also recall positive childhood experiences unrelated to gaming.”
The PlayStation One is a home video game console developed by Sony. Released in Japan on 3 December 1994 and later in North America on 9 September 1995 and Europe on 29 September 1995. The console was primarily designed by Ken Kutaragi and Sony in Japan, while additional development was outsourced in the UK. An emphasis on 3D polygon graphics was placed at the forefront of the console’s design.
“The global pandemic and the resulting isolation have driven people to seek comfort in older games. These games teach perseverance and resilience, as players have limited lives and must earn new ones through skilled gameplay. Patience and grit are valuable life lessons learned through gaming.”
RetroPlay
With “RetroPlay”, I tried to capture the essence of retro gaming while exploring its profound emotional impact on players. The hand-sculpted artworks pay tribute to classic consoles, reminding us of the enduring joy and significance of these vintage experiences.
Limited Edition Print
Limited Edition Print
“RetroPlay” is available to exclusively purchase as Limited Edition Prints. Screen printed on 308gsm Hahnemühle paper in the United Kingdom.
Print Size: 20 x 20 inches
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