“100 Plates” is an interactive exhibition intended to raise awareness of the hunger problem in our community. Most people view hunger as a third world problem when – in reality – hunger occurs not only in America, but right here in Jacksonville. For just $1, Feeding Northeast Florida can provide 10 meals for a family in need, therefore a donation of $10 could provide 100 meals, or “100 Plates,” enough to feed a family of four for a month. $10 is an easy donation and 100 meals became our compelling hook. We wanted to design a campaign that defied expectations and would stand out from other organizations seeking support at that time of year. The exhibition transported viewers to an environment where they were forced to make the tough choices many in our community face. These decisions engaged and informed viewers while encouraging them to take action.

The “100 Plates” installation has two separate elements. The first is a large-scale art installation made with paper plates, hung at differing heights in the window, forming the number 100 to draw visitors into the space. Once inside, visitors see a multi-dimensional interactive infographic to educate visitors about the impact of hunger on children in our community. Conductive ink was painted on key touch points, triggering animated projections when touched that told the story of Jimmy, a young boy whose family struggles with hunger. These projections interacted with black line art printed on raw wood (10’ panels) to illuminate facts about food insecurity. The simple materials (paper plates, raw wood, light) were purposefully chosen to evoke a home-like and approachable aesthetic, allowing us to surprise and delight the audience with unexpected interactive technology. The modest veneer also was critical to appear innovate without appearing wasteful.

The “100 Plates” kickoff event was a huge success, breaking the organizations fundraising goals through donations received through the built-in iPad and Square device. The exhibit and its technology were featured across local news outlets. Almost immediately after the launch, Feeding Northeast Florida began to receive more volunteers at its facility and more engagement from the public. The campaign continues to help the organization receive donations through the online donation system and has helped position them as a forward-thinking innovative non-profit. We are currently working to arrange additional community partnerships to install an updated version of the exhibit in another custom space.