How to not be afraid of the dark - a breathing sloth plush

Growing up my parents worked long hours and often wouldn’t be back home by my bedtime. Alone in the dark, the only source of solace was from my pillow-side stuffed animals — the companions who protected and comforted me.
As I transitioned into adulthood, I relinquished my childhood comforts and embraced what I believed were necessary for adulthood — strength and self-sufficiency. Yet, even as an adult, I yearn for a cuddly comforting presence in moments of aloneness.
Sloths are what I aspire to be. They are kind and happy. Their arms always open wide, offering warmth and ease.I made this breathing sloth plush for @workinprogressnyc’s Valentine’s day showcase at Persona. The theme was self-healing and self-love. I found it absolutely magically watching people’s eyes open wide when they felt the breathing, then smiling and enjoying a moment with the sloths in silence.The breathing is mimicked by an air balloon connected to two air pumps and a valve.
I used two air pumps to get a shorter inhalation and a relaxing long exhalation.The control source code can be found here. Hope you enjoy the cuddling sloth 🦥