When Radio Was New: John Vassos and Design for Mass Media

What should a radio look like? How should a tuning dial feel to the touch? More than a half-century before the iPhone, pioneering industrial designer John Vassos addressed these questions, recognizing that the right answers could mitigate fears about new media technologies and inspire people to welcome them into their homes. Danielle Shapiro, author of a book about Vassos, will show how he contributed to the shape of radio and television receivers as a lead consultant to RCA in an age when these devices revolutionized how Americans consumed information and entertainment.

Organized with Miami Design Preservation League and presented as part of Art Deco Weekend.

Tickets must be obtained through the Wolfsonian-FIU’s website. To register, click here.