Unstoppable

In 1995, I graduated from art school and embarked on a journey through Latin America. During my travels, I became captivated by the diverse array of "put it in the bin guys" – No Littering collection – found on crisps and other prepackaged foods. I was astounded by the sheer volume of unique icons, far surpassing the three or four standardized designs I was accustomed to seeing at home. My intrigue led me to collect approximately fifty of these images, and thus began my lifelong obsession with collecting graphic signage.

Over the next twenty-five years, I amassed an extensive collection of packaging cut-outs and other pictograms, including the "use no knife" icons – No Knife collection – which I tore or cut from cardboard boxes. My collection grew exponentially when digital photography became more prevalent. I was particularly drawn to "no parking or else we tow away your car" signs – No Parking collection – with their varied tow trucks and cars.

My fascination with the ceaseless creativity of designers worldwide, their relentless drive to create yet another version of existing signs, and their imperfections and wear and tear, fueled my passion for collecting. No grid, no printing mistake, no sign was too shabby or worn for my collection. Whether in a new city or country, my eyes would seek out the most common and unique signs, and I would photograph them with unbridled enthusiasm. I had become an unstoppable collector, always in pursuit of the next treasure to add to my collection.

– Zander Dekker, Amsterdam 2023