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Console "A", Cray Research, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, Perspective

A work made of graphite on tracing paper.

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  • A work made of graphite on tracing paper.

Date:

1960

Artist:

John N. Polivka
American, 1910-1999

About this artwork

Working far outside the bounds of conventional workplace technology, Control Data Corporation pioneered designs for the world’s first supercomputers as early as the 1960s. Yet, even supercomputers required an office environment, and founder Seymour Cray tasked architect and industrial designer John Polivka to create designs for his Wisconsin-based company. Polivka responded with graphics, mainframe cabinets, and a high-tech, yet human-scaled, interface, complete with a cockpit-like swivel chair, round data screen, and design-forward chandelier.

Status

Currently Off View

Department

Architecture and Design

Artist

John N. Polivka (Architect)

Title

Console "A", Cray Research, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, Perspective

Place

Chippewa Falls (Building address)

Date  Dates are not always precisely known, but the Art Institute strives to present this information as consistently and legibly as possible. Dates may be represented as a range that spans decades, centuries, dynasties, or periods and may include qualifiers such as c. (circa) or BCE.

1960

Medium

Graphite on tracing paper

Dimensions

52.4 × 81.3 cm (20 5/8 × 32 in.)

Credit Line

Gift of John N. Polivka

Reference Number

1996.801.1

Extended information about this artwork

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.

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