Pill Bugs and People Play ｜ 2024
pill bug, fallen leaf, switch, wood, polyester sheet, acrylic panel, video

This work considers play with others. One person may feel they are having fun, while another may not. This situation can occur not only between humans but also in interactions with animals and insects. Humans often adjust their behaviour based on whether they feel ‘fun’ or ‘not fun’. Children, in particular, tend to prioritise their own ‘fun’. In contrast, adults teach children to avoid doing to others what they would not want done to themselves, encouraging them to consider when others are not having fun. In Japan, children are especially fond of pill bugs, often playing with them and enjoying their ability to roll into a ball. This work uses the voices of children saying ‘fun’ and ‘not fun’, offering a chance to reflect on how much we should consider the ‘fun’ of others and who or what the ‘other’ might be. After play, a memorial service is held for the pill bug, accompanied by sutra reading and incense. We reflect on the passing of the pill bug.






















Exhibition｜Gokuraku Asobi Art Festival
Venue｜Outenin Temple
Cooperation｜PADOMA Youchien