Flip, Bump, and Plunge — Pinball Anyone?

Summary

The article discusses an underpass in Western Australia transformed into a vibrant pinball-themed street art installation, with a reflection on the local train lines and the call for more art in the area.

Abstract

The underpass, which is a popular pedestrian route in a suburb divided by the Midland train line, has been artistically designed to resemble a pinball game, complete with bright directions and playful elements that encourage a faster pace until one is metaphorically 'flipped' into a sign prohibiting bicycles or skateboards. The artwork serves as a reminder of the need for safety, emphasized by the addition of a train crossing symbol. While some train lines in Western Australia are being converted to underground routes as part of a sinking project, the Midland line has yet to undergo this transformation. The underpass's art only adorns one side, with the other side remaining gray and in need of similar artistic attention. The piece is contributed by Sandi Parsons, an experienced school librarian and photography enthusiast, who invites readers to join Medium for access to more stories.

Opinions

The author appreciates the playful and engaging nature of the street art in the underpass, which brings vibrancy to the space.
There is an implied opinion that street art can positively impact public spaces, making them more inviting and enjoyable.
The author suggests that the presence of art in public spaces is desirable and that the other side of the underpass should also be adorned with street art.
The mention of the 'sinking project' and the Midland line not being part of it yet could imply a subtle desire for urban development and infrastructure improvements in the area.
The inclusion of a referral link to Medium indicates the author's support for the platform and a desire to share content and possibly attract new readers or members.

Follow the ball; down you go.

As you walk down the slope of this underpass, the bright pinball directions encourage you to go faster. Until that is, the flippers flick you into the “riding of bicycles or skateboards is prohibited” sign.

Just in case the idea of slowing down didn’t click, the artist (or artists) thoughtfully added a train crossing too.

In Western Australia, many of our train lines are above ground, although the great ‘sinking project’ started in 2012. New lines and some existing train lines are in the process of underground conversion. But not the Midland line — at least not yet.

The Midland train line divides my suburb into two sections. There are a few ways to cross the line, but this underpass is popular for those on foot. The bright pinball game only decorates one side of this underpass — the other is gray and dingy and needs some street art attention.

Sandi Parsons is an award-winning school librarian with over 20 years experience working in educational libraries. She lives with her favorite husband and two problem puppies. She dabbles in the art of photography.

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More six-word photo stories from Sandi:

Flip, Bump, and Plunge — Pinball Anyone?

April Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Graffiti & Street Art”

Follow the ball; down you go.

If Rotto was a Pokémon…

March Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Pet People”