Elaine’s thesis, From Cosplay to Daily Life: Exploring the Positive Impacts of Role Play, investigates how role play can be used as a tool to bridge the gap between self-perception and social confidence. Through a system of physical products, digital applications, and experiential design, her work empowers individuals—especially those struggling with self-expression—to practice new roles, reshape their behavioral patterns, and explore new facets of identity. By reimagining everyday interactions as opportunities for self-discovery, her project offers a playful and transformative approach to personal growth.
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a blend word of "costume play", is an activity and performance art in which participants called cosplayers wear costumes and fashion accessories to represent a specific character.
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Why does this change occur? What makes cosplay effective in this way? Can other forms of role play provide similar benefits? Moreover, can cosplay offer similar benefits to others who are not cosplayers?
Elaine Gao is a Industiral designer based in New York and China. She is an MFA candidate in the Products of Design program at the School of Visual Arts, and she holds a bachelor's degree in industrial design at the South China University of Technology. With experience across CMF design, UI design, and management, she is passionate about exploring new fields and dedicated to creating impactful, sustainable designs.
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