Introducing “Kaleidoscope: Patterns of Resilience”

Like the ever-changing patterns of a kaleidoscope, our world is in constant motion. Our resilience in the face of change can inspire us, connect us, and demonstrate how we—and the world around us—can adapt and thrive.

The Smithsonian’s Office of Digital Transformation has launched  Kaleidoscope: Patterns of Resilience, a website and multichannel tour experience highlighting stories from across the Smithsonian that explore the concept of resilience. The site is a “One Smithsonian” pilot project designed to engage audiences and connect stories of resilience with the needs and interests of Gen Z and younger Millennial audiences.

Showcasing 15 stories of resilience to start, with more to be added each month, the narratives demonstrate the ability of people and nature to respond and adapt to external stressors.

Tardigrade, Mutaparadoxipus duodigifinis from the Southeastern United States, in the collection of the National Museum of Natural History

Learn how the microscopic tardigrade’s resilience in the face of extreme conditions has inspired scientists to explore alternative preservation methods as part of their goal to protect biodiversity. Experience the resilience of the African diaspora with “Afrofuturism Music: An Escape through Time and Space.” Be inspired by the movement for environmental justice that embodies community resilience and resistance.

Costume worn by Nona Hendryx of the musical group LaBelle. (courtesy National Museum of African American History and Culture)

Showcasing 15 stories of resilience to start, with more to be added each month, the narratives demonstrate the ability of people and nature to respond and adapt to external stressors.

The stories and objects we highlight celebrate various ways of understanding resilience just as a kaleidoscope highlights the beauty within each fractal. Together, our lived experiences and connection to our environment create a colorful, mosaic-like portrait of what it means to react, respond, and adapt to change.

“I couldn’t be more pleased to see this collaborative effort truly shift things at the Smithsonian,” said Ana Spalding, Director of the Adrienne Arsht Community-Based Resilience Solutions Initiative at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. “[This initiative is] facilitating conversations across science, art, history and culture in unique and generative ways. In addition to advances within the institution, we are excited to share these stories of resilience with the broader community. It is through stories (and what better stories than those told from the Smithsonian’s collections) that we can explore our own resilience, our community resilience, and a path forward for change.”

ODT seeks stories from all units to expand Kaleidoscope and inspire younger generations to think about their own resilience and that of their own communities by engaging with the rich resources of our collections and expert insights.  To share a story in an upcoming phase of Kaleidoscope, contact Sara Snyder, Director of Digital Programs, Office of Digital Transformation, at SnyderS@si.edu 

Mural created for the Center for Environmental Justice at the Anacostia Community Museum (Courtesy Anacostia Community Museum)