PLANET WORD MUSEUM
The world’s first voice-activated museum
Role: Motion Design Direction
Year: 2020
Working with philanthropist Ann Friedman’s team and Local Projects, the Franklin School, a National Historical Landmark located six blocks from the White House, was transformed into Planet Word, the world's first voice-activated museum of language.
Through ten immersive learning galleries, visitors can use their voices to interact with exhibits while hearing from a diverse international cast of leaders, authors, and everyday people who share what language means to them.
Through ten immersive learning galleries, visitors can use their voices to interact with exhibits while hearing from a diverse international cast of leaders, authors, and everyday people who share what language means to them.
The Library
The Library is a magical place where the wonders of imagination and literature collide. Visitors can choose from a large selection of books and watch as the characters, settings, and pivotal moments come to life before their eyes. As birds fly, basketballs bounce, and Alice falls down the rabbit hole, visitors hear cinematic narration that explains what makes each book special.
Where do words come from?
In this introductory gallery, a massive wall composed of over 1,000 three-dimensional words comes to life, speaking aloud, asking visitors questions, and responding with a lively combination of sound, animation, and lighting effects. This interactive wall uses its voice to address stereotypes and misconceptions about how language works—challenging, for example, the idea that 'ain't ain't a word' and presenting evidence for language as a living thing shaped by us all.
Research & Development
Due to the unique and challenging form factor of the sculpture, an innovative approach to projection mapping had to be custom-built from the ground up. Working closely with architects and physical designers, the team developed an agile 3D projection simulation workflow that allows for modular updates to the keywords on the wall, as well as precise visual tests synced with audio components. As a result, the narratives were enriched with visual effects that transformed a static sculpture into a dynamic storytelling canvas.
Onsite Installation
Each letter was meticulously sculpted and mounted on the wall according to strict guidelines to match the design. Six high-resolution projectors and ten sonic speakers were installed in the space to create an immersive experience. A team of engineers and motion designers collaborated to map and program the show, testing every interaction point and variation of the storyline.
Press & Awards
“Planet Word, the world’s first interactive museum of language”
Best in category: Expressing, Interaction Award 2021
“At this awesome new museum, the exhibits respond to the sound of your voice”
Fast Company
“Planet Word Where You Can Experience Language In Magical Ways You Never Imagined”
Forbes
“Planet Word, A New D.C. Museum, Explores The Landscape of Language”
Washington Post