There was a cyclist who was killed on my campus around this time last year -- one of these "ghost bikes" appeared as part of the memorial on the sidewalk (http://tinyurl.com/yrtxsv), and it was eventually removed, I assume by the school. On the anniversary of his death this month, a new bike appeared on the sidewalk, and I think it has already been removed.

It was a strong reminder, and I think it helped even non-cyclists/drivers to be more aware of road safety, especially when placed at one of the busiest intersections on campus. It's interesting and somewhat sad to note how quickly these bikes were removed, though, when there are mangled and decrepit bikes chained all over campus that have been there almost as long as I have.

There was an exhibit kind of like this when I worked at the Aldrich Museum of Contemporary Art. Tom Burckhardt replicated his studio in cardboard... tons of fun! It was really fascinating to see all of the little details (like a toilet and pair of shoes) replicated so carefully.

http://aldrichart.org/exhibitions/past/burckhardt.php