Sign of the Times
A graphic designer's unexpected find
Who would have thought a trip to an antique market in Ringgold, Georgia, would turn into a deep dive into the world of graphic design? Certainly not me. I was on the hunt for hidden treasures, hoping to unearth a forgotten piece of Americana. Instead, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of a different kind: vintage signs.
Callaway Brothers, a former cotton gin turned antique store (sign emporium), was a revelation. Rows upon rows of weathered metal and enamel, each piece a silent storyteller of a bygone era. As a graphic designer, I couldn’t help but see these signs as more than just relics of the past. They were tangible examples of problem-solving through visual communication.
From the bold, iconic Coca-Cola script to the utilitarian simplicity of a lumberyard sign, each piece had a purpose. They informed, directed, and branded. In a way, they were the original billboards, the first forms of outdoor advertising. And while they may lack the sophistication of contemporary design, their effectiveness is undeniable.
It’s a fascinating paradox: something as mundane as a gas station sign can be a rich source of inspiration. It made me think of Chip Kidd’s observation that graphic design is as much about solving problems as it is about creating aesthetics. The speed bump, for instance, is a purely functional object, yet the sign warning you of its presence is undeniably a design solution.
“Everything that is NOT made by nature is designed by someone.” — Chip Kidd
So, while I may not have found that perfect antique market experience, I did discover a renewed appreciation for the often-overlooked art of signage. It’s a reminder that design is everywhere, even in the most unexpected places. And sometimes, the best discoveries are the ones you weren’t looking for.
Around the water cooler
Functional Design
Graphic design is about communication. Do your graphics direct your customers to the what, when, where and how’s of your business? When you want out you look for the EXIT sign. Where do you want your customers to go? What do you want them to do?
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Your photos and words take me there!
Love the photos and words, Lisa, thank you!