“No Need to Grow This Way” is a therapeutic toy designed for young people struggling with anxiety and depression. It aims to explore the stages of development and psychological self-healing under the heavy pressure of modern society.
Sold in a lucky dip format, the collection consists of five potato plush toys, each capturing a unique social-emotional expression, accompanied by five themed bags representing various workplace and life scenarios. Through tactile and visual presentation, it guides the audience to intuitively release negative emotions and find psychological comfort without the need for words.
The technical and artistic core of this work uses the “potato” as a primary visual symbol. Growing randomly and waiting to ripen in the soil, it deeply symbolises the inner desire of the younger generation to be accepted and allowed to grow at their own pace. By blending art therapy with trendy toys, this project triggers emotional resonance, calling on the public to support the mental well-being of young people with greater understanding and tolerance.
BA (Hons) Studio Practice (Visual Communication) 
Maria Patmanidi | Graphic Design
