I’m not sure about you but I can remember playing with the original Nintendo Game Boy and I treasure those memories as well. But does retro tech make for good decoration? Not on its own probably and only if you manage to find it in the basement or manage to buy a unit from someone. In the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of technology, devices that were once considered evolutionary can quickly become obsolete, set aside as newer, more advanced gadgets take their place.
However, one innovative company, Grid Studio, has found a unique way to honor and preserve these technological relics, transforming them into decorative masterpieces that double as fascinating conversation starters. To test these out ourselves, they were kind enough to send us a few displays with some of our favorite gear and I can confirm it’s exactly what you’d expect to get and it’s glorious.
Turning functional devices into works of art
Grid Studio specializes in converting retro-tech and gaming gear into stunning pieces of art. Their frames display an array of classic items, from the nostalgic Nintendo Game Boy and Nintendo 64 controller to more modern devices like the first Android smartphone and recent iterations of the iPhone.
These aren’t just replicas or models; they are genuine devices that were once operational and have now been meticulously disassembled for display. These kits have edges, scratches, and soul.
The intricate process of deconstruction
What sets Grid Studio’s creations apart is the intricate process of deconstruction. Each device is carefully taken apart, revealing an intricate array of parts and electronic components within. This painstaking process not only highlights the complexity and craftsmanship that goes into each device but also offers viewers a unique perspective, a glimpse into the heart of technology that is usually hidden away beneath sleek exteriors.
As you can see in the photos that I took they not only deconstructed the kits but arranged all the parts in a nice and appealing layout with a bit of information to explain what you’re looking at. All of this makes for a nice decoration whether you hang the frames on the wall or put them on a shelf. Maybe not a bad background for all the streamers and YouTubers out there. Maybe I’ll even put it up for my home office calls – everybody likes a bit of an icebreaker, right?
A testament to technological progress
While these frames may initially come across as purely decorative, they serve a much more profound purpose. By showcasing these devices in such a unique manner, Grid Studio presents a tangible timeline of technological evolution. These frames tell the story of how far we’ve come in terms of technology, reminding us of the leaps and bounds we’ve made while also prompting us to appreciate the intricacies of the devices we often take for granted.
Furthermore, Grid Studio’s frames serve as a testament to technological progress. They highlight the rapid pace of innovation, demonstrating how quickly devices evolve and improve. Within each frame lies a narrative of development and advancement, a story of how each component, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in creating the devices that have transformed our lives.
The intersection of technology and art
In conclusion, Grid Studio’s work represents the intersection of technology and art. They’re not just creating decorative pieces; they’re showcasing history, celebrating innovation, and sparking curiosity about the technology that shapes our lives. Each frame is more than just a decorative piece; it’s a tribute to our technological journey, a captivating exploration of the past, present, and future of technology. These products could be considered a luxury and that’s also what the pricing reflects.
Knowing that the actual process of acquiring retro kit, as well as their purchasing price, and the time and labor to deconstruct and assemble everything in a frame, I was not surprised to see the prices around $200, depending on what you’re going for. If you want to make a good deal however you can have a look at their Summer sale that’s still going until July 15h. Through their work, Grid Studio invites us to pause, reflect, and marvel at the wonders of technology — not just for its functionality, but for its inherent beauty and complexity.
YouTube: With a Gameboy Framed Forever – Grid Studio
Photo credit: The images shown have been taken by Christopher Isak for TechAcute.
Editorial notice: We received samples for the test but were not paid to write this article.
