October 4, 2009

The BDSM Emblem



The emblem emerged in the 1990s from the discussion arenas of America Online and Usenet, and is gaining some currency, particularly in the mixed online community.
The design is by Steve Quagmyr, who explains: 'We wanted something that BDSMers could wear discreetly to recognize each other, but which would look like nothing more than an interesting pin to outsiders. It had to be something that hadn't been, and wasn't likely to be, coopted by teens, bikers, or heavy metal fans, that was subtle and discreet enough so that it could be worn in a vanilla environment without raising eyebrows or questions, but was distinctive enough to be recognized by those "in the know". It was inspired by, but different from, the symbol described in The Story of O [Réage 1966]. The resemblence to a sort of three-part version of the Yin & Yang symbol struck us as a plus; it is also a variation on the Chaos Wheel.' The tripartite design can be interpreted as the division and mutual interdependence of BD, DS and SM; Safe, Sane and Consensual; and Tops, Bottoms and Switches. The curved lines could suggest a whip in motion, and the circular shape oneness and the protection of the community. The colours may vary but the circle and the dividing curves are supposed to be metallic. Quagmyr retains copyright on the design, though encourages community and not-for-profit groups to use it freely. See also The Emblem page.

Story found at http://public.diversity.org.uk/deviant/sscodes.htm

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3 comments:

Anonymous said...

It is also extremely similar to a triskele used by the Celts and other ancient cultures.

dark snow on October 4, 2009 at 8:18 PM said...

i didn't know..thanks for the info!!!

Sabri on October 6, 2009 at 1:33 AM said...

In my opinion, It is great to full fill its purpose; recognition of the people who are interested in and not recognized by the others.

 

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