Black History Radio is an interactive art display that pays tribute to Black History Month by using a vintage radio as a vessel for storytelling. Rather than tuning into radio stations, users have the unique opportunity to tune into specific years, each dedicated to a distinguished historical figure in Black history. This approach not only educates but also adds a layer of replayability with multiple audio clips available for each year. The project is further enriched by a custom newspaper-style radio program advertisement, skillfully crafted by artist Lauren Heyen, designed after the real radio program advertisements of the 1960s. Black History Radio offers an interactive and inspiring experience, immersing users in the significant moments and figures that have shaped Black history.
Vintage Radio
Selecting the right radio was a critical decision driven by creative intent and time constraints. To transport users back in time and immerse them in the historical narratives, a vintage radio was the ideal choice. The allure of the vintage radio was in its ability to evoke a sense of the past. However, this creative vision had to be balanced with time limitations; the project had a tight timeline, allowing only a few weeks for completion. To meet this challenge, I opted for a vintage-style yet modern radio, combining the aesthetic appeal of the past with the practicality of modern components. This strategic choice not only saved valuable time but also ensured the project could be delivered on schedule. A standout modification included replacing the frequency display sticker with a custom-made display representing eight pivotal years in Black history.
Curating the historical figures for Black History Radio was a thoughtful and inclusive process from the very beginning. My aim was to feature an equal number of both male and female figures, celebrating the contributions of Black individuals across genders. The final selection encompassed a total of eight figures, spanning the years from 1947 to 2008. To ensure a dynamic and replayable experience, each historical figure was represented by 2-3 audio clips, enabling users to delve deeper into their stories. As the project evolved, it became evident that users needed a way to identify and connect with the figures they were listening to. This requirement inspired the creation of a companion art piece, a 1960s-inspired newspaper page promoting the "Black History Radio" program. This striking art piece was a collaborative effort, skillfully crafted by the talented artist Lauren Heyen, adding depth and context to the historical narratives presented in the project.
List of Historical Figures
Sony Spresense
Bringing Black History Radio to life required a microcontroller that could handle the project's technical requirements. I needed the capability to play high-quality audio while also seamlessly changing between them. An added amplifier was to be avoided if possible, and these specific requirements led me to the Sony Spresense microcontroller. This device supported 192 kHz / 24-bit audio, came equipped with a built-in amplifier, and featured an SD card slot. The Spresense's capabilities were not only impressive but also perfectly aligned with the project's needs. By utilizing the Spresense microcontroller, I was able to forego the inclusion of any additional hardware, streamlining the setup and ensuring optimal audio playback. My experience with the Spresense left me thoroughly impressed, and I eagerly anticipate utilizing it in future projects, particularly those that involve camera-based applications.
The exhibition of Black History Radio at the Black History Artist Showcase held at Universal Creative was an enriching experience. Amongst a diverse array of exceptional artworks created by incredibly talented artists, my project had the opportunity to be along side them. During this showcase, I learned an intriguing insight into user behavior – that people may not instinctively interact with items designated as art. To encourage greater engagement and interaction with the project, I introduced a "Try Me" label on the radio, inviting visitors to approach and explore the radio, thus fostering a more dynamic and participatory experience. This realization underscored the importance of creating inviting and interactive elements in the realm of interactive art, fostering a deeper connection between the audience and the artwork on display.
Black History Month Art Showcase
Lessons Learned
New Frequency
I thoroughly enjoyed working on Black History Radio, which allowed me to shine a light on the remarkable historical figures who have made significant contributions to Black history. This experience has inspired me to explore new horizons and build upon what I've accomplished. In my vision for the next version, I plan to take authenticity to the next level by using an actual vintage radio, gutting the interior, and replacing it with modern components. This approach will enhance immersion by omiting modern elements like the Bluetooth button. Additionally, I aim to streamline the setup further by using a single power supply for the entire interactive, simplifying the project's technical aspects. As I look forward to the future, I am excited about the potential for even more impactful and engaging versions of Black History Radio that can continue to educate, celebrate, and inspire audiences.
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