WONDERPHONE
The WonderPhones are a series of interactive payphones that connect a diverse group of Dallasites with their city. The project leveraged the iconic yet antiquated technology of the payphone, retrofitted with new technology to engage the downtown community in an immersive and interactive experience that allows people to listen to content and play and record their stories. As a passive listener or an active contributor, people will have the ability to choose the way that they want to engage with the installation. Ultimately, this installation aims to inform people about their city, suggest ways to experience their city, inspire deeper connections between people, and encourage them to participate in the future of their city by sharing their voice. Three phones were located in colorful enclosures in semi-permanent locations Downtown, and two mobile phones "pop-up" at various location throughout October 2017.
Created in collaboration with Gray Garmon, Katie Krummeck, Justin Childress, and Edward Li, the Wonderphones exhibit was selected for the Activating Vacancy Downtown Dallas, a National Endowment for the Arts-supported project in partnership with Downtown Dallas, Inc.
Press:
CBS News, What Are ‘Payphones’ Doing In Downtown Dallas?
NBC News, You’ll Be Surprised to Hear About Dallas’ WonderPhones
D Magazine, Calling from the Downtown Dallas WonderPhone
Dallas Innovates, Design Nonprofit Selects 2 Artist Groups for Community Project