AR-Based Installation Prototype
Media Archaeology, Columbia University, 2024

Click the title page to view the full pitch PDF.

Wasted Wonderland is an innovative, interactive exhibition designed to transform children's perceptions of e-waste from mere discarded items to sources of creative potential, while simultaneously educating them about the environmental impacts of electronic waste in our digital age. This immersive experience features a series of engaging installations and hands-on activities crafted from repurposed electronic materials, targeting children aged 6-12 who have grown up in a technology-dominated world. The exhibition includes several captivating areas:
 

•  The "E-Waste Zoo," where discarded electronics are reimagined as whimsical creatures, complete with AR experiences accessed via QR codes.

•  An "Electronic Life Gallery" that showcases the lifecycle of electronic devices, highlighting concepts like planned obsolescence and sustainable practices.

•  An "E-Waste Showroom" that uses clever lighting and projection techniques to illustrate the human and environmental costs of e-waste.

•  Interactive workshops where children can engage in circuit bending and creative repurposing of old electronics.
   

Through these experiences, Wasted Wonderland aims to empower children to become "planet heroes," fostering environmental awareness, creativity, and responsible e-waste management habits. The exhibition not only educates about the harmful impacts of e-waste but also inspires participants to see the artistic and cultural potential in these discarded materials, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable practices in our increasingly digital world.