Reimagining Ghost Signs.

Ghost signs—those charming, faded advertisements clinging to the sides of old buildings—are like the Snapchat stories of yesteryear, but with a much longer expiration time. They whisper tales of businesses long gone, products once cherished, and services that were the bee's knees back in the day. As Historic England aptly puts it, "Ghost signs are the fading advertising signs, or shop signs that are preserved on buildings longer than the businesses they represent."

For years, I've driven past a particularly captivating ghost sign perched above my local chippy, its vintage allure sparking joy every single time. Recently, inspiration struck like a bolt of artisanal lightning: why not breathe new life into these nostalgic masterpieces by transforming them into vibrant, modern prints using the delightful technique of risograph printing?

And so, the "Reimagining Ghost Signs" project was born—a 2025 venture dedicated to marrying the old-world charm of ghost signs with the bold, playful aesthetics of contemporary art. Each month, I'll select a ghost sign, dissect its historical essence, and reimagine it as a limited-edition risograph print bursting with color and whimsy.

Ghost sign in my local town above the chip shop.

Kicking off the series is January's pièce de résistance: "Metcalf and Co." This print pays homage to the original sign's heritage while infusing it with a fresh, modern twist that's sure to tickle your fancy.

Curious to see how "Metcalf and Co." turns out? Eager to follow this artistic journey and perhaps snag a print for your own collection? Keep your eyes peeled and your senses tuned—updates will be rolling out faster than you can say "vintage vibes."

In the meantime, why not take a stroll through your own neighborhood? You might just spot a ghost sign or two, silently waiting to share their stories with a new generation.

Stay connected for more updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes shenanigans. Let's make 2025 the year we bridge the past and present, one ghost sign at a time.

Note: No actual ghosts were harmed in the making of this project.