From the out-set the ultimate aim of The Sign Show has been to unite every aspect of the sign industry. We want to celebrate the diversity of the trade by showcasing the most up-to-date advances whilst not forgetting the roots of the industry.
The sign industry is known and respected for embracing emerging technologies and continually evolving to create innovative and eye-catching products.
The digital age means that we are moving into an exciting future – but we must not forget to pay respect to our past, which has made the industry what it is today.
The Sign Show will allow you to experience first hand the developments that have been made in the trade, and to view how the old and new can complement each other.
There is no better place to experience this ethos first hand than at the demonstration area hosted by Peter Millichamp and his team from PKM Signs.
Peter has been working within the industry for more than 3 decades, and in this time has witness many chances and advances in technology. Originally carrying out all his work with traditional brush and paint, Peter moved into computer generated signs, and then embraced the digital age providing full colour, wide format print services.
He is, therefore, along with an experienced team, in the perfect position to demonstrate the different techniques that have been employed by the sign industry over the years.
The demonstration area featured at The Sign Show will consist of a 45 sq metre pub exterior mock-up. Split into two sections, each will include fascias, windows, hanging signs and sales boards.
One side will be created using traditional sign making methods, while the other will be totally designed using today’s modern disciplines.
Peter Millichamp explains, “The emphasis is really on using new materials and skills to replicate what was produced traditionally, people believe that the 'old' skills have gone, but they have simply been modified for the modern materials available. Design is a major element in signage and we will be using good, basic 'tried and tested' design disciplines as the basis of the demonstration.”
Visitors will be able to witness working projects and professional sign craftsmen using a series of expert techniques.
However, this area is not just about standing and watching, it is entirely interactive where visitors will be encouraged to assist and try out different skills. The educational aspects are fundamental to the demonstration.
Millichamp continues, “We certainly look forward to people not just asking us about what's happening, but actually 'having a go' for themselves, there will be plenty of opportunity for that.
“We have managed, once again, to assemble some top people in their fields, who are all passionate about sharing knowledge and expanding others horizons.”
The first day of the demonstration will focus on the construction of the pub signage with all elements being finished and mounted to the façade. The conclusive two days will consist of bench top demonstrations throughout.
Expert craftsmen will be on hand to help answer any questions relevant to the skills in practice. They will also demonstrate tips and tricks acquired from years of dedicated practice.
The area provides an invaluable opportunity to experience different skills and try your hand at techniques that may be of interest. It is sure to be one The Sign Show’s many highlights.
Millichamp concludes, “From all the demonstrations we have undertaken throughout the years, we are always pleased when young aspiring signmakers 'pick our brains', there is a lot of talent waiting to be unleashed and hopefully we, in our small way, can help with that. It is a chance for the 'modern' signmaker to learn new skills for themselves from experienced craftsmen, who through the years have gained an enormous amount of 'tips and tricks' that are easily adaptable for today’s sign maker.”
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