Technology Curiosities

EMMA WAGNER

LIGHT PHONE II

Minimalist phone, 2018

Aluminum alloy, matte plastic, wiring.

Owned by M.D. O'Quinn, loaned to photographer. 

This minimalistic device allows the owner to travel light, unencumbered by constant notifications and advertisements. This phone serves limited functions, such as texting and calling, and is in direct contrast to the modern phone. 

LAUREN SCHERRER

TI-36X PRO CALCULATOR,  2011

Plastic body, solar cell, rubber feet, wiring.

Owned by author

A calculator that can be used for simple math or more complicated college level math. The only thing lacking from it is the ability to make graphs. It uses a solar cell instead of replaceable batteries. It is covered in dirt and plants grow out of it. It has become a part of nature again. 

EMILY HAN

NINTENDO DSI XL, November 2009

Aluminum Alloy, Plastic body, wiring. 

Owned by author

A larger version of the handheld game console DSI, released 2008, that together sold over 41 million units. The 3DS was released in March 2011, replacing the DSI.  The last game made for the DSI was released in 2016, after which, the DSI was "out of date."

IAIN SCHLEGEL

PYLON SIGN, May 2023

Metal, plastic composite, faux wood, electrical wiring. 

On Display by Richmond Road (Unknown Owner)

Each advertisement reflects a different aspect of the global metropolis, from large corporations to the flowing of cuisines and cultures, to the continued exploitation and disentanglement of the coffee industry today.