Uploaded September 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago
If you're of a certain age, you probably remember the magic of seeing 3D images with a View-Master. But did you know the toy has a surprising origin story?
The classic stereoscopic viewer was originally used for military training during WWII, but in the 1960s designer Charles Harrison was asked to reimagine this tool. One of the most prominent African American designers in modern history—and a graduate of the School of the Art Institute—Harrison swapped out the heavy Bakelite for lightweight plastic and made this iconic toy a household staple. Discover the full story with Alison Fisher, curator of architecture and design, and check out the View-Master on view in Gallery 285.
If you're of a certain age, you probably remember the magic of seeing 3D images with a View-Master. But did you know the toy has a surprising origin story?
The classic stereoscopic viewer was originally used for military training during WWII, but in the 1960s designer Charles Harrison was asked to reimagine this tool. One of the most prominent African American designers in modern history—and a graduate of the School of the Art Institute—Harrison swapped out the heavy Bakelite for lightweight plastic and made this iconic toy a household staple. Discover the full story with Alison Fisher, curator of architecture and design, and check out the View-Master on view in Gallery 285.
