Adult's play : the exploration of BDSM through playful visuals

Abstract

Play is joy and excitement. It is the act of curiosity in motion, involving exploration, imagination, and make-believe. The same definition can be applied to BDSM, within the realm of adult leisure and sexuality. This dissertation aims to provide a better understanding of how playfulness serves a crucial component in BDSM, shedding light on the practical dimensions of this intriguing connection and visually representing it from a playful eye. The initial research discusses the diverse meanings of play, how BDSM is perceived, and the many-sided nuances they both possess in academic literature. It also explores the artistic endeavours of artists who incorporate play and/or human sexuality, such as Nancy Davidson and Kyle Bean. Data was collected by interviewing a counsellor and two local artists, followed by the experimentation of mediums and techniques using practice-based research. As a result, playing with materials emerges as the epitome of this study and its ability to question societal norms by combining nostalgic toys with BDSM iconography in an artistic format. Providing an alternative visual representation presented its unique sets of challenges, and these were thoroughly examined to explore the implications of certain colours and imagery used to symbolise BDSM. Nevertheless, the use of whimsical aesthetics demonstrates how the project can evolve and captivate the audience on several levels, from artistic appreciation to intellectual contemplation. This initiative adds to a larger conversation on the amalgamation of art, psychology, sexuality, and culture to improve our knowledge of human experiences through the power of play.