Sign Language, designed by Lansing-based visual strategist and designer Ben Graham, explores the social construction of meaning through the use of traditional communication symbols, and was featured at ArtPrize in 2015. Graham’s intent is to encourage the community to interact with the piece and each other, and to become more intently aware of our collective impact on shaping common symbols.
His installation, Sign Language, is a positive, uplifting statement which engages its audience and the general public directly, on many levels and adapts beautifully to its site. The viewers, taking selfies, sharing moments and creating memories with the artwork, are an important component of this work. The Sign Language installation is comprised of seven individual signs, which are placed on Lansing’s River Trail beginning at Impression 5 and stretching North along the river.