
Where does traditional sign painting fit in the modern world? Sign writer / painter Andrew Grundon joins us to talk about his craft, its place in modern day sign design, and how commercial sign companies can accommodate the integration of this traditional craft and the specific requirements of an artist into their business.
Andrew considers whether his profession is a trade, a craft or an art, and the point at which it crosses those boundaries. He ponders if there is still room for this traditional craft in the current signage business arena, and if so, what it uniquely has to offer. Andrew reflects on the reasons for the decline in traditional sign painting, and if there is a renewed appetite for it in the 21st century. He also explores what motivates businesses to employ traditional craftspeople for signage.
When a sign is not a sign? Andrew shows how handwritten / painted signs can enhance space, for example as murals painted directly onto walls. He argues the case for scenarios where traditional signs are a must, and traditional crafts such as sign writing and painting can enhance carefully thought out, bespoke signage, tailored to the client’s specific requirements. He demonstrates: what an artist can contribute to breathe fresh life and a unique look to a project; how their craftsmanship can successfully be integrated into larger signage schemes; and the advantages of incorporating hand-painted bespoke signs (and how they can give a design scheme the edge).
In answering these questions, Andrew also showcases some of the commissions he’s worked on over the years, for clients such as BT Sport, Ogilvy, Tower of London, BBC, the Trafalgar Tavern, Paul Rudd, Rick Stein and Pullman.
About our speaker
Andrew Grundon has a lifelong obsession with drawing, painting, carving, model making, writing … basically anything creative. As a young man, after a brief foray into the world of “proper” work, Andrew moved to Cornwall and set himself up in business as an artist and illustrator. At the turn of the last century, a signwriting job for St. Austell Brewery led to Andrew becoming a self-employed craftsman (to this day he still does commissions for the brewery). His clients range from international P.R. companies, royal households, T.V. companies and personalities to Hollywood stars and independent businesses. Andrew and his work have featured in numerous magazines and books, and he’s been interviewed for T.V. and radio programmes and podcasts both in the UK and internationally. In 2023 Andrew received an award from the Heritage Craft Association for his
contribution to the craft of traditional sign painting. Nowadays, his work includes painted and carved signs, statuary carving and other artistic endeavours.
Find out more and to buy tickets
Members: Our online seminars are free for all to attend. For non-members, the ticket cost is now £19 per person. Purchased tickets are non-refundable.
Not a member, unable to join-us in-person or for the live-streamed event but would like to watch it at a time convenient to you? We offer the option to watch the event recording on a time-limited basis for the cost of a £19 ticket. Tickets are available to purchasevia PayPal or by invoice / bank transfer. Unfortunately, we are unable to process credit card transactions direectly. Please email Kate for more information.
To book your place(s), please email our Administrator Kate: enquiries@signdesignsociety.co.uk.