Drainspotting

Came across these the other day. They're manhole covers in Japan.


I’ve never been there but apparently this is just how their done over there. They come in a variety of designs based on locality, utility and manufacturer. They sometimes include a symbol peculiar to a region or town as part of the overall design. In Kyoto, a turtle (symbol of wisdom and longevity) is the main motif. Local landmarks, flowers or animals might also be used. Pretty cool how a seemingly insignificant item given a little love can become something beautiful. A flag for a town even. Wonder why we’ve never done that here. Here are some more:

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Posted by: John Bowles on March 1st, 2010

3 Comments

"Its interesting how much they value design and use it as a tool to reflect the vision and values of each region. Even looking at US manhole covers reveals interesting insights about our culture vs. an eastern one. New York, Boston, and Chicago covers are beautiful in their own right, but are very simple, structured, on a tight grid system, and in a way, reflect our industrial, factory, process based mindset. Japan, in contrast, reflects beauty, harmony, and uniqueness. Both are interesting. Both are beautiful. But both reveal different reflections of our cultures. Unfortunately, this is Atlanta's manhole covers: http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2451/3796777275_6263319fbe.jpg"
- Blake
"The featured two are wonderful and what a great contrast. If only Americans would invest in just making things just a little bit special."
- Daniel-ray
"Yeah - I made a book and Ipad/Iphone app about them - Called Drainspotting - Check it out
App store:
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/drainspotting/id364587681?mt=8

BOOK:

http://markbattypublisher.com/books/drainspotting-book/"
- Remo camerota

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