Denver’s Hand-Painted Signs: Character & Craftsmanship
In Denver, hand-painted signs are more than just advertisements; they are vibrant optical forces that add unique character to storefronts and communities. This rare art form, far from being lost, is experiencing a spirited resurgence, thanks to dedicated local artists who imbue the city with a touch of humanity and nostalgia.
The Resurgence of a Timeless Craft
While vinyl signs gained popularity for their convenience in the ’80s, the unique appeal of hand-painted artistry is making a strong comeback in Denver. Artists like Nick Miller and the team behind Odd World Signs are leading this revival, bringing distinctive visual staples to businesses across the metro area.
Sooner or Later Sign Co.: Nick Miller’s Bold Vision
Nick Miller, founder of Sooner or Later Sign Co. in RiNo, stumbled into sign painting while looking for an escape from a grocery store job. After receiving guidance from mentor Ross Trimmer of Surehand Signs, Miller honed a classic style characterized by “big blocky letters, bold colors,” and a mid-century modern touch. His work, seen on storefronts, cafe windows, and downtown sidewalks, animates spaces with a retro feel, offering businesses artistic freedom within a cohesive aesthetic.
Odd World Signs: Americana Folk Art with a Local Flair
Jae Mo and Kevin Hennessy, along with Kevin’s brother Lynn, operate Odd World Signs, infusing Denver with their brand of Americana folk art since 2016. Hennessy began illustrating menus and chalkboard signs after high school, eventually forming Original Signs with his brother before collaborating with Mo. Their collective work, sometimes in partnership with Nick Miller, contributes to Denver’s distinctive visual identity, drawing inspiration from diverse sources including folk art, road trips, and local spots like Lakeside.
Why Hand-Painted Signs are Indispensable
Artists emphasize that “a sign doesn’t cost. It pays.” These visual staples serve as a crucial part of a business’s identity and communication strategy. Beyond aesthetics, hand-painted signs offer practical benefits that vinyl alternatives often lack.
| Feature | Hand-Painted Signs | Vinyl Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Long-lasting (outlives vinyl) | Prone to peeling, requires frequent replacement |
| Cost (long-term) | Higher initial investment, but durable | Lower initial cost, but higher overall replacement costs |
| Aesthetic Value | Unique, custom, “alive,” nostalgic, resists “grayification” | Generic, mass-produced, lacks individuality |
| Community Impact | Adds humanity to buildings, fosters local identity | Functional, but less distinctive or character-rich |
Hand-painted signs provide order and information, inviting customers in a way that feels personal and authentic. Jae Mo notes a “wistfulness” and an “alive” quality, emphasizing how they “give humanity to a building” and resist the “grayification of Denver.” Kevin Hennessy also highlights the distinct “Latino flair” seen in Denver’s sign art, setting it apart from other cities.
The Craft: More Than Just a Brushstroke
Creating a hand-painted sign is a meticulous process that extends far beyond simply applying paint. Artists carefully consider how each sign will communicate, taking into account factors like location, traffic (both foot and vehicle), and the surrounding neighborhood. It involves detailed planning, mockups, and expert knowledge of brush techniques, lettering styles, and color theory to ensure the sign clearly conveys the business’s message and personality.
Cultivating Community and Inspiration
Sign painting thrives on a strong community spirit and a constant quest for inspiration. Artists like Hennessy and Mo are “walking archives of folk art,” drawing ideas from diverse sources such as old ghost signs, carny lifestyles, and even global styles observed during travel. Mentorship, as seen in Miller’s story, and educational initiatives like Doc Guthrie’s online courses, are crucial for passing down tricks of the trade and fostering new talent.
Diversifying the Art
Recognizing the historical demographics of the craft, Nick Miller actively works to diversify the field by offering discounted lettering classes. His aim is to open doors for new communities and ensure the craft continues to flourish through education, passion, and a commitment to its rich history.
FAQs About Denver’s Hand-Painted Signs
- Who are some notable hand-painted sign artists in Denver?
Key artists include Nick Miller of Sooner or Later Sign Co., and Jae Mo and Kevin Hennessy of Odd World Signs. Other influences mentioned are Chuck Dorsey and Matt O’Neill. - Why should a business choose a hand-painted sign?
Hand-painted signs offer unparalleled durability, a unique and custom aesthetic, and a “human touch” that adds character and authenticity to a business, distinguishing it from generic vinyl. - Is the art of sign painting making a comeback?
Yes, after a decline in the 1980s with the rise of vinyl, hand-painted sign making has seen a significant resurgence since the late 2000s, driven by artists passionate about preserving and evolving the craft. - What inspires Denver’s sign painters?
Inspiration comes from many sources, including folk art, observations from road trips, local landmarks like Lakeside Amusement Park, and a deep appreciation for the unique visual history and “Latino flair” found in Denver’s urban landscape.
The next time you walk Denver’s streets, take a moment to appreciate the hand-painted signs; they are not just commercial tools, but living art pieces that tell a story, invite connection, and enrich the city’s unique identity.
Denver Hand Painted Signs See Craft Revival
