Shifting the rabbit ear antennas to get a clear signal on a wooden box television is a fond memory for many South Africans. While many of those television sets have long last been used, the country’s first Tevolution Museum is sharing the journey of TV innovation in the country since 1976.
“This exciting initiative connects the past to the present through television, a window into the world for many South Africans,” says Ron Martin, Chairperson of the Sendinggestig Museum.
Located on Long Street, the Tevolution Museum offers an interactive journey through the decades of the country’s television history, from those wooden TV box sets to cutting-edge 110-inch UX display.
“The Tevolution museum is a first for the country. It not only chronicles Hisense’s technological journey, but also inspires young scientific minds by showcasing the technology we pioneered,” says Alex Chen, Hisense South Africa’s Marketing Manager.
The museum is a collaboration between Hisense South Africa, the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, and the South African Sendinggestig Museum.
In addition to its historical exhibits, the museum features a Digital Art Gallery in partnership with the Academy of Digital Arts, showcasing work by emerging artists. Visitors can also explore a futuristic Laser Cinematic Room and an innovative stringless harp. The exhibits also feature gaming consoles like Microsoft’s Xbox Series X.
“[The museum] is a testament to the incredible journey of innovation and cultural enrichment that television has brought to our nation. This museum not only celebrates the evolution of technology but also highlights the Western Cape’s role as a hub for creativity and economic growth,” says Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC.
The museum will also offer school tours, art exhibitions and technology workshops.
It will open its doors on 5 December, and the Tevolution Museum is free to enter. So, prepare for some nostalgia and to be teleported through the ages.
