Strum for Change: Guitars with a Message

Empathize

You will conduct interviews with musicians and community members to understand their perspectives on political messages in art and music, and research historical examples of politically influenced musical instruments, gathering insights to inform your design approach.

Days 1 - 4

Meet Local Music Voices

Launch 60m

Empathy Research Portfolio

Deliverable

Define

You will synthesize your research on political issues, guitar construction, and social themes into a clear problem statement that articulates how your guitar design will address and represent these critical topics.

Days 5 - 8

No activities have been added to this phase yet.

Ideate

You will engage in brainstorming sessions, explore a variety of materials and tools, and collaborate with peers and community partners to generate innovative guitar designs that incorporate political artwork and align with your social messaging goals.

Days 9 - 13

Concept Sketches & Feasibility Pack

Deliverable

Prototype

You will construct prototype versions of your politically-themed guitars, incorporating feedback from luthiers and your peers to refine design, craftsmanship, and artwork effectiveness, while documenting the process in a zine for reflection and future improvement.

Days 14 - 19

User Testing Documentation

Deliverable

Test/Present

You will present your guitars at the 'Harmony in Activism Expo,' demonstrate their functionality in live performances, and engage with community feedback to validate your artistic and social messaging impact.

Days 20 - 25