by Vivian Yawen
from Shanghai in China
About Hedy Lamarr
Hedy Lamarr was more than just a famous Hollywood actress—she was a pioneering inventor whose work transformed modern technology. While the silver screen celebrated her as the “most beautiful woman in the world,” her greatest legacy lay in the world of science and technology. In an era that often reduced women to their appearances, she shattered expectations by combining beauty with brilliance, proving that intelligence knows no bounds. Alongside composer George Antheil, she co-invented frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology, a foundation for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS, which remains essential to our digital world today.
Hedy as my Hero
Hedy is my hero for her groundbreaking invention and courage in breaking stereotypes. She navigated a world that often failed to recognize her intellect, yet she persisted, using her creative mind to contribute to fields far beyond entertainment.
Sharing her story
Her story speaks to the power of persistence, ingenuity, and breaking barriers. By celebrating her achievements as an inventor, we recognise that heroes come in many forms—some shine under the bright lights of Hollywood, while others quietly change the world through the brilliance of their minds.
My choice in creation
I chose a blue monochromatic palette for my linoleum cut print of Hedy Lamarr. Blue, often associated with qualities such as intelligence, calmness, and depth, reflects Hedy’s brilliance and pioneering spirit. It evokes a sense of clarity and trust, indictaing her effort made work that has had a profound, lasting impact on modern technology. Blue also suggests creativity and innovation, aligning with her capacity to think beyond the conventional and push the boundaries of science.
I show my understanding regarding Hedy's efforts by showcasing texture, —just as Hedy herself worked tirelessly to bring her ideas to life despite often being overlooked. The roughness of the paper can symbolize the struggles she faced in a male-dominated world, and that true brilliance isn’t always smooth or easily recognized. The texture also enhances the vintage feel, implying Hedy’s impact is longstanding even after her physical death.
