Photo: GakkyDaidai on Twitter
Although he is a talented painter and sculptor active in Italy since 1990, French artist Clet Abraham has become popular in recent years rather for his unique, yet controversial urban interventions. Among other specific urban projects, he stands out for changing road signs through stickers while still respecting their readability. However, when it comes to local authorities it would seem his art is not much appreciated.
The sticker-altered street signs appeared in Osaka and Kyoto over the last month and even though drivers are quite fond of the peculiar works, police are already trying to find a way to ban their creator.
Abraham claims his work is build around the idea street signs are a symbol of authority. His stickers are meant to point out how people unquestioningly follow the authority, by making passers-by take note of these signs, that usually blend into the background.
But the French artist is willing to admit to have created them every time police officers question him, especially that he claims the stickers are designed not to interfere with the function of the street signs. However, some of the street sings Clet creates, such as a black silhouette sneakily carrying away the no-entry bar or the crucified Christ on the dead-end sign, have raised controversies around the European cities the artist has visited so far.
We’re not quite sure if these little alterations interfere with the main purpose road signs have - that of making traffic safe - but we sure find them quite innovative.
Abraham claims his work is build around the idea street signs are a symbol of authority. His stickers are meant to point out how people unquestioningly follow the authority, by making passers-by take note of these signs, that usually blend into the background.
But the French artist is willing to admit to have created them every time police officers question him, especially that he claims the stickers are designed not to interfere with the function of the street signs. However, some of the street sings Clet creates, such as a black silhouette sneakily carrying away the no-entry bar or the crucified Christ on the dead-end sign, have raised controversies around the European cities the artist has visited so far.
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— aƒ“~D(Ï´ü@Ï) (@mai_houzuki) January 13, 2015 “I try to offer a service with my talent and knowledge. It’s possible that some graffiti artists have a similar work ethic. We do share a taste for the mysteries of the night and of surprise; a healthy attitude [or preference] for liberty of expression and breaking of rules – but these are the bases of being an artist!” Abraham explained to Tuscany Arts, back in 2010.We’re not quite sure if these little alterations interfere with the main purpose road signs have - that of making traffic safe - but we sure find them quite innovative.
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