Hold the Line
An interactive installation retelling the stories of Operation Market Garden.

This project was nominated for the HKU Awards 2024.


This project was a collaboration with Bridge to Liberation.

Tasks:
- Physical design
- Prototyping
- Interaction design
- Sound design
- Electrical installation
- Research
- Playtesting
- Communication
- Implementation

Programs used:
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Audacity
- Unity
- Arduino IDE

About the project:"Echoes of War" is an evocative collection of interactive installations that delve into the untold and forgotten narratives of war. The inaugural installation, titled "Hold the Line," resurrects the compelling tale of Operation Berlin, a pivotal moment during the evacuation of 2600 Allied soldiers on the nights of September 25th and 26th, 1944. Faced with the challenging decision to abandon Oosterbeek and Arnhem and retreat across the Rijn River, the Allies ingeniously employed a white ribbon to guide the evacuating soldiers through the darkness.

During Operation Market Garden in World War II, the Allies aimed to secure key bridges for a swift advance. However, fierce German resistance in Arnhem and adverse conditions led to the inability to capture the vital bridge. Surrounded and outnumbered in Oosterbeek, Allied forces faced a critical decision. Unable to hold key positions and at risk of being cut off from support, they initiated a strategic withdrawal on the night of September 25th and 26th, 1944. The evacuation, marked by the Allies retreating across the Rhine River, was a necessary response to overwhelming odds, symbolizing the tactical realities of war during this pivotal moment.

In "Hold the Line," the immersive auditory experience is brought to life through a tangible white ribbon. By physically pulling the ribbon forward, users navigate through the narrative, endeavoring to capture the essence of the harrowing journey undertaken by these soldiers. The installation seeks to authentically recreate the reality of Operation Berlin, allowing participants to connect with the historical events on a visceral level. As a compelling exploration of the human experience amidst the chaos of war, "Hold the Line" stands as a poignant testament to the resilience and sacrifice of those who faced the challenges of that critical moment in history.