Symbols in Aspen (1)

This week has got me thinking about how symbols/features of a product, place or thing often convey a wide-receiving message to the public about the location and its importance. 

In regards to Aspen, a large portion of its representation around the world is through the Aspen Leaf as shown below:

This leaf, sourced from the Populus tremula (commonly referred to as the Aspen tree), is known to inhabit much of the rocky mountains, especially that of the town that shares the tree's name. An image of its leaf is shown below.

Aspen trees are interconnected through a shared root system which, through this symbolism, is likened to the community of Aspen, identifying their strength in numbers. In addition, it conveys the community strength to the flora and fauna that surrounds them, ranging from the trees that bear this leaf to the mountainous terrain that provides much of the economic support for the community through tourism.

In saying this, the symbol offers an idealised image of Aspen as a whole, designed to invite potential tourists in, but it fails to account for the impact these tourists have on the community. Much of the problems faced in Aspen lie in its massive overpopulation and expensive real estate due to the massive demand for winter skiing. It also ignores the ecological challenges present, shying away from the impacts deforestation and climate change have on the community as a whole.

Despite this, the Aspen leaf remains a powerful representation of Aspen and its communal values.