ABOUT
Why X = Y is a Smithsonian exhibit exploring the history of human computers. During NACA hired hundreds of African American women to perform mathematical equations and calculations by hand. These women were marginalized for their sex and race and often did not receive credit for their findings. This exhibit’s goal is to give the rightful owner of these findings to the engineers and finally share their story. The exhibit focuses on three human computers that are accredited with significant scientific and equality accomplishments. The overall exhibit is organized by the findings that lead up to the United States landing on the moon. The visitors are led through the exhibit by the interactive quiz that is featured both in digital and analog forms throughout the exhibit. Completing these questions awards a commemorative metal inspired by the Presidential Medal of Freedom which was awarded to Katherine Johnson in 2015.
BRANDING
The color scheme is a modern take on NASA’s logo from the 1950s. The imagery is heavily inspired by the graphic comics that were popular at the time and feature hyper-feminized illustrations pushing the importance of women within this environment. The geometric elements are simplified shapes that were often used within the equations the engineers would use.
ENTRANCE SIGN
EXHIBIT DIRECTIONAL SIGNS
WEBSITE
GIFT SHOP ITEMS
The merchandise included within this exhibit aim to represent the femininity of these women, the time period, and the achievements they made. The earrings represent a jewelry collection that would be paired with the exhibit celebrating the femininity that these women were shunned for. The projector creates an interactive experience allowing visitors to take home a piece of space with them. The Presidential Medals of Freedom are rewarded for completing the knowledge checks throughout the exhibit. These are heavily inspired by the actual award Katherine Johnson earned in 2017. The temporary tattoos are representative of the 1940s-1950s time period. As the women are depicted throughout the exhibit in the pin-up style seeing these in their typical tattoo form further draws the connection with the historic time period. The sticker and button set fill out the collection using the same visuals as the overall exhibit.
