Walkers, bikers and runners on Lansing's River Trail are discovering philosophical pathways through a new set of directional signs installed in late August through the city's public art program.
Designed by Lansing visual strategist and designer Ben Graham, "Sign Language" consists of seven individual signs that present positive, uplifting statements. Messages such as "Peace & Love," "Smell the Roses," "No Whining," "Aspire," and "Be Happy," appear on signs in the traditional shapes, sizes, and colors of those used to direct traffic.
The idea behind the work, Graham says, is to encourage people through simple assertions. He says an installation resembling directional traffic signs was a perfect medium for presenting positive messages.
"I became very intrigued with traffic signs as a communication device," says Graham. "We follow and pay attention to what they tell us without even thinking or knowing we are. They give us a command and we just do it. And they take us where we want to go and are very successful for the most part."
"Sign Language" was featured at ArtPrize 2015, and was noticed by a board member of the Lansing Economic Area Partnership. Graham says he was later approached by LEAP to permanently install the artwork on the River Trail beginning at Impression 5 and stretching north along the Grand River.
"This is a great piece that makes a strong statement, and inspires really interesting conversations," says Bob Trezise, President and CEO of LEAP. "It's the kind of piece that works to shift us away from the antiquated 'rust belt' moniker that doesn't match with where we currently are."
The acquisition and installation of "Sign Language" was coordinated through LEAP's new place making pilot program ENGAGE. Funding was provided by the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau's Greater Lansing Destination Development Foundation.
Source: Ben Graham, Visual Strategist and Designer, Ben Graham Group
Writer: Ann Kammerer, News Editor
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