Bringing flight stories to life
Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum
Accessible digital experiences
Washington DC, USA
Overview
As part of the redesign of the iconic National Air and Space Museum, ngx produced 56 media experiences that foreground accessible design, underrepresented perspectives and connect with the Museum's evolving target audience. The work included film, original animation, and a full suite of digital interactives to augment interpretation of historic artifacts, such as the Wright Flyer and the Apollo 11 command module.
Smithsonian photo by Jim Preston.
The new media interactives translate dense content into intuitive experiences that reinforce the distinct visual identity and messaging objectives of each gallery. Considerations of the audience informed graphic design choices, animation styles, case-study selections, narrative design, and the casting of voice talent. For example, lesser-known aviation pioneers are introduced through the narrative concept of a student scrapbook, inviting young audiences to see more of themselves in the work, and move beyond the institutional authority of a disembodied curatorial voice.
Smithsonian photo by Jim Preston.
A Museum for All
The Museum prioritized the interpretive and accessibility requirements of all exhibits, so we prototyped and evaluated extensively to ensure that they met or exceeded standards. We closely engaged with the Institute for Human Centered Design and used the American Disabilities Act to ensure that the digital experiences are Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust—each delivering the POUR principles of accessible exhibit design.
Smithsonian photo by Jim Preston.
The linear media production spotlighted on-camera interviews and dialogue-oriented commentary. ngx’s team of editors, sound designers, animators, and videographers crafted films that delivered on the vision. Real-time problem-solving allowed those exhibits to remain on schedule through a dynamic regulatory landscape.
Smithsonian photo by Jim Preston.
Smithsonian photo by Mark Avino.
Smithsonian photo by Jim Preston.
