Part 3 Patrick Thomas Breaking News 2.0 Installation, By Susanna Edwards, and Patrick Thomas.

• Hosted at the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)
• Created by Patrick Thomas, exploring news, media, and audience interaction
• Uses real-time global news headlines via RSS feeds + public participation

How It Works

• Two main inputs:
  1. Pre-selected RSS feeds (French, Russian, Asian headlines, etc.)
  2. Public input – visitors type their own messages via:
     • QR codes on smartphones
     • A simple Raspberry Pipowered terminal
• Visual display:
  • Headlines projected on large vertical screens
  • Random graphic symbols mixed with text for unexpected juxtapositions
  • Some black shapes obscure content, referencing censorship
• Audio Element:
  • Background audio stream adds to the chaotic atmosphere
  • Designed to feel overwhelming and question news consumption

Concept & Themes

• Challenges news authenticity – where does news come from? Can it be trusted?
• Encourages public expression – open to all, allowing serious, playful, or nonsensical input
• Cultural differences in media – the same story can be interpreted differently depending on context

Previous & Future Locations

• Breaking News 1.0 – Liverpool (public space, handwritten messages)
• Breaking News 3.0 – Manchester (shop window, CCTV elements)
• Future Plans – Serbia, Barcelona, Berlin, USA (including potential shopping mall installations)

Graphic Design Approach

• Uses Arial Narrow Bold – a font often disliked in design communities
• Intentional low-tech aesthetic to reflect everyday digital media

Public Reception