Just a cursory glance at the headlines on any newspaper of news website – or simply taking a walk or drive through any economically depressed, inner-city neighborhood – serves as a stark reminder to the limited resources and opportunities in such areas. Opportunities abound to help, and taking the time to help pass along knowledge and expertise rewards on many levels – and, in some cases, probably helps more than a simple cash donation.
At the USSC Sign World tradeshow, which took place in Atlantic City, NJ, December 3-5, several pinstripers, airbrush artists and signmakers participated in the Bullpen. Although ego certainly plays a role in a signmaker displaying his craft for public consumption, the Bullpen served a tangibly altruistic purpose. The artists on hand showcased their skills to benefit Signtex, a venture that helps at-risk youth learn signmaking and screenprinting skills.
Signtex operates as a work-study program under the auspices of the Atlantic County Boys and Girls Club and the Atlantic City Juvenile Justice Center. It employs local students and operates as a for-profit business that fulfills orders for signage, T-shirts and related graphic-design items. According to Jess Caserta, the program’s director, 36 high-school students from the Atlantic City area are currently enrolled in the program through both organizations.
In the Bullpen, these artists participated in panel jams and collaboratively handpainted panels. These panels were sold, and the proceeds benefitted Signtex. All told, panel proceeds tallied approximately $1,500. Also, several signpainters created flat, handpainted signs on 4 x 8-ft. Alcan Dibond® composite-material panels. This years-long tradition of painted signs had yielded numerous attractive signs for Signtex, Boys and Girls Club and other communities. Therefore, Bruce Gough, the longtime Bullpen director, said the Atlantic County Club has agreed to share the wealth and donate the signs to interested Clubs nationwide.