Spotted…
Wednesday, June 15th, 2011Guerilla urban knitting on the cycle path….
Archive for the ‘Cultural materials’ Category
Cultural mobility icons
Monday, June 6th, 2011Regardless of where I am, I always photograph the walk/cycle traffic symbols. Although universal to an extent, they are uniquely shaped by the local culture.
During the Bristol Campaign Cycle (BCC) ‘Chic Cycle Ride’ on Sunday, I noticed Martin Tweddell (BCC chairman) was wearing an interesting looking trouser snap guard thing. He explained it featured images of the East German Ampelmännchen or ‘traffic light man’. Prior to reunification in 1990, east and west Germany had different road traffic symbols and the East German versions were soon replaced. This prompted public outcry and campaigns to return to the original character. As a result, the Ampelmännchen was returned to traffic communication infrastructure and also began a new life as a cultural icon, appearing on an array of objects such as cycle guard things and tourist souvenirs. It is an interesting case study of mobility communication and cultural practice.
