For my project I will be creating a programmable LED display encased in a wood frame. I will be blending the natural feel of the wood with the retro aspect of a led display. I aim to produce a functional artistic piece that can reflect my personal aesthetic while being able to change due to how I’m feeling on that day.
Below is an initial sketch of my idea
Design and Fabrication
The design centers around a high-resolution LED matrix that allows for a dynamic and colorful picture or animation. Functionality is a key specification, with the display capable of showing everything from simple patterns to complex animations. To achieve this, I’ll use RGB LEDs for their color versatility, controlled by software that I plan to write with clarity and modularity in mind.
The frame will be crafted from wood, chosen for its natural feel and the warmth it brings to the retro project. The wood will be cut to be a seamless display. The size of the display will be substantial enough to be impactful while fitting comfortably in an indoor setting.
Aesthetic Influence
My personal aesthetic leans towards a blend of the retro and the modern, appreciating both the organic nature of wood and modern technology. This project draws inspiration directly from my childhood toy ‘lite brite’. The simplicity and functionality of Scandinavian design also influence my approach, focusing on minimalism and practicality.
Past experiences play a significant role in shaping this aesthetic. Growing up, I often created art with a toy called a lite brite which used little colored pins on a black background with a white light in the back. This has inspired me to create something similar but modular to be able to conform to whatever aesthetic or art style I want.
Future Aspirations
For this project I want to go through with this idea of a desk item that I can change and make my own. I want to make something that I would use and love to see on my desk. I really don’t want to put so much effort into something that will end up in the corner of my closet. I’m excited to follow through with this idea and see what will become of it!
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I adored lite brites. Also, I agree with the other commenter a warm-toned stain will make it look expensive and if you want to emulate the hardwoods better you could hand paint on more striations to fake closer growth rings.
Great post Matthew, your project of creating a programmable LED display encased in a wooden frame sounds really cool. I like how you’re blending the natural look of wood with the retro vibe of LED displays. Your inspiration from childhood toys like ‘lite brite’ adds a nostalgic touch, and I’m excited to see how your project turns out.
I think this initial idea is promising. I think if you are going for the retro aesthetic it would be cool if you could program the matrix to use multiple leds to form a single “pixel”. By making the pixels larger than the size of the leds I think you could create a display that doesn’t look so modern. I think you should look into staining the wood to get a really nice warm color because cheaper woods like pine are usually on the whiter side (not as rich of a color).