While animal taxidermy is a contentious issue, I doubt that there are many who would take issue with Regan Appleton's delightful idea for bicycle taxidermy. It's true that we can develop intense loyalties to our modes of transportation, and this is a striking way to commemorate the passing of a trusty, long-lived travel companion. And who can resist such a chic visual pun?
Born as a tribute for Appleton's father's discarded mountain and road bikes, the artist views this as "a somewhat sentimental take on a mass-produced object becoming defunct," where the "handlebars are given the care and craft of a preserved family pet," and "re-appropriated as a family heirloom."
The mounts, which cost £40 plus shipping, are made in London out of scorched or bleached oak, chrome mounting brackets, and a stainless steel epitaph plate etched to your specifications in Scotland. (Regan suggests including the bike's name, model, dates ridden, and a commemorative verse.) Alternatively, you can purchase a purpose-made mount (£100) available in five styles: chopper, cruiser, pursuit, butterfly, and dropped bars.
For more photos or to purchase a mount, visit Bicycletaxidermy.com.
(Images: Bicycletaxidermy.com)
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Picasso was the original - and last year my husband made me 3 of these, including one that looks like a reindeer! Adding a seat as the head completes the picture.
Everything is a contentious issue on Apartment Therapy. LOL. Anyway, these are cool.
Looks like trophies for drivers who've run over cyclists.
Oh RAPIDTRANSITMAN: Your comment made me laugh out loud and I feel guilty about that!! :o}~
As one who really dislikes taxidermy, I think these are a hoot. At first I thought they were hooks to hang your bike(s) until I saw a close-up. A HOOT I SAY!!
These are hilarious! I wish I knew an avid biker I could gift one of these to.
Look like good coat racks too.
meh.
It's a cute art project, but in my household of six bikes, old handlebars get re-used on different bikes. They are never considered "defunct" until they are broken or bent.