Vernacular Signage

I’m starting a new blog category today called Vernacular Signage.  It reflects a curiosity I’ve had for a long time, and I have an ongoing random collection of photos to show for it.

The term “vernacular” has most often been used to describe language or architecture.  In those contexts, it represents the idioms, phrasing and built environment that has been produced within a native culture out of necessity, habit, or life experience–regardless, without the help of outside “experts.”  In my years of architecture school, we called it “architecture without architects.”  I like that description.

In my graphic design world, there is a growing interest in “vernacular typography.” I’ve seen the classification defined as “type” that is produced without the contribution of professional designers or those trained in typographic disciplines.

I’ve termed my interest as “signage” because it implies an element of communication.  It is more than the forming of letters, but also the putting together of words to make a statement. The combination of how words are chosen and ordered, and how they are drawn and visually expressed really reflects the creativity of an individual.  Dictionary.com tells me that the word “vernacular” may derive from an Etruscan word “verna” meaning “home-born slave.”  Interesting–as if the creative product is somehow inately bound to its creator, a slave from its conception.  

This creative aspect of vernacular implies a tactile quality.  I’m most interested in signage not applied by a machine, but produced, drawn, written, or painted by hand.  Yet, signage is also functional.  It does not exist strictly as a creative pursuit.  Although what’s produced may be attractive and artistic, it was not conceived as “art.”

The communication may be a hand-written note using a familiar pet name, a flyer announcing an upcoming local event, an impromptu statement of belief, a spontaneous “I was here,” or a hand-painted business sign or notice.  I’m very intrigued by the possibilites.  Stay tuned and add your comments!