Our Top 10 Sign Writers

posted by Grace Mostyn October 15, 2018

Sign painting is an art that has captivated people for many decades. Not so long ago storefronts and murals were all created by using just hand, brush and paint. As technology developed, the industry quickly was taken over by cheaper, faster digitally designed signage and vinyl cut lettering. However, in recent years there has been a resurgence in the sign painting trade once again and a growing trend in businesses seeking out traditional sign painters to give a more individual feel to their identity.

This specialised trade can involve hand lettering, calligraphy and illustration interchangeably. Sign painters are often trained for years to perfect their craft and technique and gain a deep understanding of typography through their training. The process of understanding type and developing the skill of working by hand can create results full of thought, individuality and personality. A well crafted sign can elevate the ordinary to beautiful. Using hand painted signage instead of printed or vinyl also has environmental benefits too! Often digitally printed signs and vinyls can quickly tatter creating unnecessary waste and therefore end up costing more in the long run.

Here are 10 talented artists we’ve selected that are keeping this wonderful craft alive:

Erin Bradley Scott
www.eb-scott.com
@ebscottsigns

Ged palmer
www.gedpalmer.com
@gedpalmer

Gemma O’brien
www.gemmaobrien.com
@mrseaves101

Juliane Kownatzki, Studio Elm
www.studio-elm.de
@studioelmberlin

Ciaran Glöbel
www.cargocollective.com/globelbros
@ciaranglobel

Alaric Garnier
www.alaricgarnier.fr
@alaricgarnier

Serge “Lowrider” Nideger
@sergelowrider

Jake Tyler
www.tylerandco.co.uk
@jakesamueltyler

Tozer Signs
www.tozersigns.com
@tozersigns

Steve Powers
firstandfifteenth.net
@steveespopowers

We hoped you enjoyed this juicy selection. Shop the Ged Palmer and Gemma O’Brien Posterzine issues below. Each issue contains an exclusive interview with the artist as well as their gorgeous work printed in two Pantone spot colours. Enjoy!