Air-King Midget Radio

Consumer products aim to appeal to popular psychology by creating strong associations in the mind of the consumers; these associations create a link between what consumers desire and the product itself. They often have links to current affairs happening across the globe. The “Air-King Midget” Radio, from 1933, was made of cheap plastic, but the Egyptian illustration on the front brings the piece back to ancient times. This blast from the past is juxtaposed by the design of the radio itself, which looks like an imposing skyscraper. It was in the 1930’s that the radio became the dominant form of mass media in most industrialized nations, including America. During this period, the Empire State building was constructed and it would remain the tallest building in the world for the next 35 years. The “Air-King Midget” Radio encompassed the booming skyline of American cities, while also being affordable to the average consumer. The materialism and the luxurious lifestyle, but at a price and made from material that the common consumer can afford. The lines also resemble the radio waves from which sound emanates. Like the obsession
It was during this period where there was a fascination with science fiction and space travel. This set was released during a period where human space travel became more of a real possibility, as the Russians had sent satellites into space. The Philco television had a futuristic appeal that also integrated with sleek Scandinavian design. Again, there is a juxtaposition with the futuristic, circular TV set and the boxy base. Owning this television set let families in on the hype and the adventure that was taking place outside their own realm of reality. On the other hand, the sleek Scandinavian design was something that was within their own world, the sharp lines emanate a sense of