Using Signs: Uninspired?

Kristen Lango

This has been on my mind for some time now.

Does anyone else feel like the use of signs in an illustration is sort of a "cheap" way to tell a story?

I don't want to offend anyone, and I've also used this device from time to time, but every time I have it feels like a really fast and somewhat lazy solution to storytelling.

Just to be clear, I'm referring to things like: a poster on a wall, a yard sign, a picket sign, a shingle sign, etc.

I'm curious to know what this group thinks!

lpetiti

@Kristen-Lango I have to be in favor of using signs sometimes in books...the plot of the last book I illustrated involved a child learning to read by looking at signs. I think signs are a part of our everyday life so it would make sense to include them some places in an illustration.

Kristen Lango

@lpetiti that makes sense, especially if a story is centered around it.

I suppose I'm more referring to those times when we as illustrators use them as a last resort.

willicreate

@Kristen-Lango Do you mean when a signage is used to inform the reader a character is moving from scene A to scene B? It depends on the execution. Like, for example, if a sign indicates the character is going to a yard sale, does it have graphics to show their aspirations, weaknesses, etc: $$$ symbols, their inability to resist getting a new toy, etc.

I think is better to have the environment inform the reader on who the characters are, rather than telling me. Like, instead of literally telling the reader this adult dislikes engaging with people they have a sign on their yard that states "Keep Out. Private Property" or the symbolic equivalent.

However, I remember reading an editorial piece on American cinema claiming the general audience wants to be directly told information. So...

An illustrator should keep in mind the reader may be learning the language or is being introduced to new concepts. Pictorial ques can be helpful. One should avoid having text in the illustration, in case the book gets translated for other markets.

Kristen Lango

@willicreate Thanks for this response!! This was exactly the kind of discord for which I was hoping.

You make a great point about books being translated (I didn't think of that).

Also interesting that it's proven that audiences respond well to direct signage.

And yes, that example you gave is exactly what I'm hinting at here: I think its our job as illustrators to create an environment that will tell you visually what the mood/setting is rather than just slap some language on a sign.

Thanks again for your input!

Asyas_illos

@Kristen-Lango I agree with @lpetiti i enjoy looking for those little things in books. If you are relying on them to tell your story then yes, it can be a bit of a cop-out, but if your story is clear without them they can add a lot of interest to an illustration.

willicreate

@Kristen-Lango said in Using Signs: Uninspired?:

Also interesting that it's proven that audiences respond well to direct signage.

To clarify, I meant in cinema when a character announces their thoughts through direct dialouge rather than express non-verbally.

Signage is a good device but, as you suggested, the design should approached with a thoughful intent.

Kristen Lango

Thanks for your input @Asyas_illos

ArtMelC

@Kristen-Lango I think it depends on the signage. I think the signage has the potential to tell a story if more thoughts are put into the designs.

Is it an Old west "wanted" poster? Something quickly scribbled with marker on copy paper and taped together? A wooden sign intricately carved? Something spray painted with dripping paint? A modern billboard? So, while the word helps to scaffold understanding of the story, the visual language of the sign can also add value instead of being a "lazy" cop out.