This wonderful collection prepared by the website It's Nice That of Japanese manhole covers is utterly sublime. It sheds light onto what a little bit of artistic vision can do to even the dirtiest of city equipment.
The art movement in Japan has been featured on Trend Hunter a couple of times before, but these sewer lids keep popping up all over the Internet. It is clear that this movement is going strong and by the looks of it, the artistic cause seems to be spreading to other countries as well.
These Japanese manhole covers look like the type they would have in heaven -- although, I'm sure heaven has a much better waste disposal system.
Japanese Manhole Murals (UPDATE)
It's Nice That Has Prepared a Collection of Beautiful Sewer Lids
Trend Themes
1. Artistic Manhole Covers - Opportunities for artists to collaborate with cities in creating unique and expressive manhole covers.
2. Public Art in Unusual Places - Creating opportunities for artists to bring their work into unexpected settings, inspiring people to see the world around them differently.
3. Street Art Tourism - Cities could use these manhole covers as a way to attract tourists interested in street art and unique public design.
Industry Implications
1. Municipalities - Cities can explore opportunities to work with artists to commission unique public art installations on city utilities, providing an opportunity for self-expression and beautification.
2. Tourism - Cities can appeal to tourists seeking unique art experiences by incorporating public art installations like these manhole covers into their visitor attractions.
3. Artist Community - It is an opportunity for artists to explore unconventional mediums and take their art outside the typical gallery scene, while still getting exposure and recognition.