The Beauty of the Warning Sign

Hi guys,

So, Japan has been well-known, throughout history and the modern era, for its art.  From classic screen paintings and woodblock prints to anime and manga, the Japanese are undoubtedly skilled.  But it has been said that the true force of their artistic ability can best be expressed through the media of warning signs and placards

Let's have a look:

Elegant in the simplicity of its message:  "Any masterpiece just becomes noise disturbance when emanating from headphones."  Not just a good lesson, but a powerful metaphor for the transformation of unique creation as it undergoes mass propagation

A classic from years ago, it's really sold by the facial expressions of the old couple.  I think the artist really captures their feelings of wry reminiscence as they contrast their lives of stability and security with those of the carefree young couple in love

Ok so this one was not found on a public train, but rather in a private restaurant. But its message is a universal one, and an important one for all of us that have ever considering using public restroom toilet paper to become a mummy

And finally, Tokyo Metro's latest ad campaign has gone full Banksy on us.  I believe they are trying to challenge us by juxtaposing a style popularized by social commentary with posters intended to promote domestic order, thus bringing into question our perceptions of the nature of societal structure

I feel honored to be in a country where I am surrounded, even on public transportation, by such thought and beauty

Noah out