Us Brits were on the move 50 years ago! We had built multiple new-fangled motorway infrastructures, many of us were in the financial position to buy cars, the price of cars had lowered and cars were therefore greatly more affordable to the masses. Britain was moving forward…but were we? We were on the move quicker and more frequently than we had ever been prior to this but it wasn’t long before there was an obvious problem. Road signs. They were either incomprehensible or roads were lacking them. This was drawn to the ministry’s attention at the 1931 Geneva Convention and a talk ensued, headed, “Concerning the Unification of Road Signals”. During so, it was made prevalent that visual aids were to be the key to new British road signs and as close to no words as was possible. This was not due to Britains illiteracy rates but instead was due to dim lighting, bad weather conditions and high speed all preventing signs and signals from being read properly and warnings being missed. Ministry members actually took note, as it was evident that the safety of the country was at risk. They asked for the assistance of Hyde Park graphic designer, Jock Kinneir, to help keep the country safe whilst driving. Along with his talented, young pupil, Margaret Calvert, the design of new signs were born, which quickly got the go ahead from the ministry. In 1965 a leaflet was posted through every door in the country, titled “The New Traffic Signals” beginning the modernity turning point for British signage. Kinneir and Calvert designed signs have barely altered since 1965 – 50 years later, their names live on. The times may be changing but apparently our road signs are timeless!
Half a Century is Definitely a Good Sign!
The 19th – 27th September is the London Design Festival 2015. This marks the unity of design and creative geniuses from the length and breadth of Britain, presenting them with an opportunity to showcase their unique and innovative designs. The range is extensive – from specific items from our built environment, functional daily necessities and decorative luxury items. It has never been known to be on such a large scale, but this year this free entry event is hosting around 400 events. One of the most highly anticipated exhibitions this year is hidden in the Design Museum and is that of the 50 years of British road signs Exhibition, designed by Calvert and Kinneir. This exhibition is also free and shows curated archived materials by Made North, celebrating the installation of both original and new British signage.
Image Sign Studio
Image Sign Studio are professional makers of signs Sheffield, and are pleased to show their support of the 50 Years of British Road Signs Exhibition, freely available for you to see now. Signage Sheffield, Image Sign Studio, established 11 years ago by dynamic duo, Richard and Dean. Having previously worked together in the signage industry, this pair bring everything you could possibly need out of a signage industry supplier. Together, they unite all aspects you could possibly need and create everything individually to each customer, on-site. This skilful team enable Image Sign Studio to offer a multi-faceted array of services to their customers, with specialisms including:
- Large retail signage
- Commercial signage
- School and Hospital signage
- 3D Signs
- LED Signs
- CNC Routering
How To Contact Image Sign Studio
Do you need advice or assistance regarding manufacturing or installation of your new shop sign Sheffield? If the answer is yes, call Richard and Dean at Image Sign Studio on 0114 261 7617 or alternatively, you can email them at rich@imagesignstudio.com