When did crabs represent immigrants?
Inomata explores the idea of changing nationalities through migration, displacement, and the search for a home
The hermit crab gets its name because it abandons its old shell in search of a new one. As the crab grows, it goes in search of bigger shells. This becomes their second home, left behind by either snails or other crabs, just like a hermit, without a home of his own. Inspired by this peaceful exchange of shells, Japanese media design artist Aki Inomata has designed a project, titled, Why Not Hand Over a “Shelter” to Hermit Crabs? It explores the theme by designing new shelters in the shape of world cities. These new homes for the crabs represent the abstract perception of changing nationalities and identities. According to Huffington Post , Inomata explores the idea of changing nationalities through migration, displacement, and the very primal search for a physical and symbolic home. Clearly, the hermit crabs became the perfect metaphor for migrants and refugees. Inomata says, “Though the body of the hermit crab is the same, according to the shell it is wearing, its appearance changes completely.” The shelters, designed in the shape of various cities worldwide, represents the changing identities of migrants.