In Amy Hurst & Anita Perr’s Spring 2022 class “Access and Assistive Technology in Museums and HIstorical Sites,” I worked with classmates to consider methods of interpreting historical naval patches from the collection of the Intrepid Air and Space Museum. The patches are unique, fragile, and rarely displayed. When they are part of an exhibition, they are behind glass. Currently, the majority of the patches are only available for viewing on the museum’s website.
*original patch images here*
Beginning with simple swellform graphics, we simplified the images and created raised-line graphic representations. We then explored methods of expanding these interpretations beyond simple tactile descriptions of their form. We wondered how we could also incorporate information about materials, historical context, and fabrication techniques. With swellform graphics as our base, we added electronics, speakers, and conductive threads to interpretations of two patches. When the sound was triggered by touch, a narrative would play, telling the story behind each patch.
(a few more images of interactive versions here)
While we were exploring creating multisensory interpretations of the patches, I also experimented with embroidery. I wanted to connect the interpretations back to their original medium.
First iterations explored ideas of embroidery as swellform, creating raised line graphics with dense satin stitches on fabric.
We conducted informal observations of our prototypes at the Intrepid Museum. We found that people really enjoyed touching embroidery more than they enjoyed touching swellform.
This finding informed the next iteration of research and prototyping in December of 2022.
Please find more information about the first prototypes here.