The Bicycle Portraits project, first started by Nic Grobler and Stan Engelbrecht, takes portraits of cyclists in South Africa to illuminate the bond these people have with their bikes. What makes these photos unique is the fact they are meant to highlight and raise awareness of the lack of cyclists within the country.
With no proper public transit system, and the only form of transit being unsafe (not to mention expensive), the photos are also meant to encourage the use of bicycles.
Inspired by their curiosity to this type of relationship, they have not only created video portraits (see one from Vimeo here) as they shoot, but are also aiming to compile their photos into a book.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Cycling Culture
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop innovative solutions to improve cycling infrastructure and promote cycling culture within countries lacking proper public transit systems.
- Visual Storytelling
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new ways to capture and present compelling visual narratives to raise awareness of social issues and promote positive change.
- Awareness Campaigns
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Utilize creative approaches, such as photography projects, to raise awareness about important societal issues and drive meaningful action.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Urban Planning
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Innovate urban planning strategies to prioritize cycling infrastructure and create more bike-friendly cities.
- Visual Media
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new technologies and platforms for visual storytelling to engage and inspire audiences in promoting social causes.
- Non-profit Organizations
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Leverage creative awareness campaigns to drive social change and mobilize communities towards addressing important issues.
