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Outdoor Advertising Gone Batty

By: Dwayne W. Waite Jr.

This billboard is probably one of the most unique and creepy things that has been seen in a while, unless you're a fan of bats. Designer Chris Woebken and artist Natalie Jeremijenko created a billboard that can provide "luxury housing" for bats in New York, and help them communicate with humans. The duo also created a software that they say can translate what the flying creatures are saying. Of course most of the translations are going to be playful, but Woebken and Jeremijenko think that it will be a way for humans to better understand bats and their needs in urban environments.

Besides, it's one impressive billboard.

As the ad industry continues to adapt into more socially conscious role, we have been seeing more campaigns and ideas along the same lines as these batpeople. Earlier this summer Coca-Cola made headlines with its green billboard. Other brands are also starting to make stances for environmental and social concerns.

This kind of cause marketing can be very effective, since it brings up topics that most people may not have on the top of their minds every day. In cities, one may get used to not seeing green or trees, so Coca-Cola's billboard made several points about the environment in a very quick manner. Likewise, with bats, people do not think of them in the best of light, so bringing attention to how bats are nature's insect control, and artificial housing like the billboard can prevent White Nosed Syndrome in bats, can enlighten the consumer.

Themes and ideas that have never been very popular, or that force consumers to change their habits, will take some time to be accepted. I guess that means more bat billboards.

h/t Adweek

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About the Author

Dwayne W. Waite Jr. is partner and principal at JDW: The Charlotte Agency, a marketing and advertising shop in Charlotte, NC. He enjoys consumer behavior, economics, and football.

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