ICM - Leeds Design Agency

Drainspotting

In Britain, they’re traditionally just left in there orignal state. But in Japan, hundreds of manhole covers serve as works of art, despite their benign function.

In a new book called Drainspotting (Mark Batty Publishing, 2010) – Photographer, urban artist and film maker Remo Camerota documents some of his favorite examples of this interesting art form.

“Designs range from images that evoke a regions cultural identity, from flora and fauna to landmarks and local festivals to fanciful images dreamed up by school children. In Kyoto, a turtle adorns the city’s manhole covers, signifying wisdom and longevity,” he writes.

Hopefully people in Britain will follow suit as it’s a hole load of fun.