FIELD:

Automaton | Storytelling | Playful

CLIENT:

Personal Project

TEAM:

Han Bao

YEAR:

2025

DIMENSION:

15×8×25cm|5.9" × 3.1" × 9.8"

Puppet Automaton

about.

Puppet Automaton explores the choreography of control and delicacy. A custom cam mechanism drives wooden fingers that tug strings attached to a puppet, animating it into a rhythmic dance—every movement mechanically determined, yet carrying an unexpected tenderness. The piece investigates the invisible systems behind motion, agency, and performance, leaving it to the viewer to decide: is this control or care, manipulation or mentorship—a puppet being operated, or a being taught to grow?

Puppet was exhibited at the 2025 ITP/IMA Winter Show. https://itp.nyu.edu/shows/winter2025/projects/#12036-puppet


Puppet Automaton explores the choreography of control and delicacy. A custom cam mechanism drives wooden fingers that tug strings attached to a puppet, animating it into a rhythmic dance—every movement mechanically determined, yet carrying an unexpected tenderness. The piece investigates the invisible systems behind motion, agency, and performance, leaving it to the viewer to decide: is this control or care, manipulation or mentorship—a puppet being operated, or a being taught to grow?

Puppet was exhibited at the 2025 ITP/IMA Winter Show. https://itp.nyu.edu/shows/winter2025/projects/#12036-puppet


story.

Inspired by Pinocchio. But there isn’t a specific story about the automaton. When people talk about puppets, everyone imagines something different — control, guidance, freedom, dance, or emotion. This story is shaped by how you feel about this automaton.

detail.

Material

  • Wooden boards

  • Wooden dowels

  • Translucent acrylic

  • Red cotton thread

Designing at the intersection of brand, technology, and experience.

hb2905@nyu.edu

All rights reserved

Han Bao ©2026

Designing at the intersection of brand, technology, and experience.

hb2905@nyu.edu

All rights reserved

Han Bao ©2026

Designing across disciplines
digital, spatial, playful, and strategic.

hb2905@nyu.edu

All rights reserved, Han Bao ©2026