Thoughts on What Makes a Contest-Winning Sign

AS I PERUSE THE 15 winning projects of our 2024 Sign Contest, the first thought to mind is “different.” Visual Graphic Systems’ (Carlstadt, NJ) “Best of Show” three-brand restaurant takeover ranks among the most unique entries in years. Also featured are a dimensional sign with an actual throwing-axe embedded from VIM Creative (Helena, MT), a multi-layer combination of illuminated Corten and landscaping by DaVinci Sign Systems (Windsor, CO), and more.

“Quirky” and “old school” projects also seem to do well. Though we consult with a different panel of judges every year, Imagination Corporation (Chilliwack, BC, Canada) and Blackout Sign and Metalworks (San Marcos, TX) — “Best of Show” winners in 2022 and 2019 respectively — are back, perhaps due to their distinctive styles. And you can’t get more quirky or old-school-looking than Bluebird Graphic Solutions’ (Woburn, MA) toast sign.

Taken as a whole, one can appreciate the challenges as well as the value of custom signs. Creating something that will truly stand out, be memorable, and possibly become an area landmark in the future starts with a thought, an idea. For decades sign companies have used Signs of the Times’ contest issue to find inspiration and gather ideas. We hope and trust you will continue to do so for decades to come.

We wish we could fit more images and all the information related to each winning project here in the magazine, but you can find all the photos and complete descriptions of every project at signsofthetimes.com/092407.