Art of the Airwaves: Novelty Radios from the 1930s to 1970s - Hilbert Museum

Founders Gallery of American Design

Art of the Airwaves: Novelty Radios from the 1930s – 1970s

September 21, 2024 – April 19, 2025

Curated by Mary Platt

Back in the Golden Age of radio and beyond, plastic shelf radios were often designed to feature molded images of celebrities and well-known figures of the day, to appeal to children and adults alike. This exhibition, curated by Mary Platt, features novelty radios that depict Disney favorites (Mickey Mouse, Pinocchio, Snow White), beloved cowboy heroes (The Lone Ranger, Roy Rogers, Hopalong Cassidy), holiday characters (Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer), sports icons (Roger Maris) and more. There are even radios shaped like world globes, tropical huts, a piano and a Coca-Cola cooler! All are selected from The Hilbert Collection.

Tickets/Reservations

The Hilbert Museum recommends FREE online reservations for entry. Guests who arrive without a reservation will be assisted by our staff as available and admitted as space permits. We look forward to seeing you!

Make Reservations

hilbertmuseum@chapman.edu
(714) 516-5880

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