Symbols of Resistance
There exist 16 Symbols of Resistance, probably more, to be encountered anywhere. They represent the enduring human qualities which support resistance: the ability to think for ourselves, to collaborate, to create and repair. They are part of an ongoing project to mark and honour these qualities, which are often found in overlooked nameless people, and are also a call to action: to reflect on our own potential and agency. They may exist as stickers, plaques, posters, placards, animations …
The symbols evolved from listing the skills that came to mind, whilst repeatedly breaking and mending the same object, using only everyday materials, testing my ingenuity. I came to appreciate the complexity involved in the repair task, and the significance of these skills and qualities for social repair. Observing repair markings on roads and pavements: simple lines, dots, arcs, and drawing whilst repairing, gave me the elements for the symbols. Although each was developed with a particular skill in mind, the symbols are intended to evoke a personal reflection on what resistance might mean, what is possible and what skills are needed.
Symbol stickers at Street Art Archive, St Lawrence University, NY.