Discover the New York Sign Museum in Brooklyn

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Visitors explore the diverse collection of vintage signs at the New York Sign Museum in Brooklyn.

News Summary

The New York Sign Museum, located in Brooklyn, is dedicated to preserving the history of signage and its significance in local businesses. With over 40 large facade-scale signs and numerous artifacts, the museum offers guided tours that encourage hands-on interaction. Founded by Mac Pohanka and David Barnett, the museum not only showcases iconic signs but also educates visitors on sign-making techniques while advocating for the preservation of urban signage. It stands as a unique tribute to New York’s design heritage amidst rapid urban changes.

New York City is home to the New York Sign Museum (NYSM), located at 2465 Atlantic Avenue in Ocean Hill, Brooklyn. Established in 2019 by Mac Pohanka and David Barnett, the founders of the sign design studio Noble Signs, the museum seeks to preserve the distinctive history of signage and its impact on local businesses throughout the city.

The NYSM boasts an extensive collection featuring over 40 large facade-scale signs, 100 smaller pieces, and a variety of artifacts and literature related to sign design and manufacturing. This diverse collection includes iconic signs that showcase vintage styles and neighborhood character, such as those from Smith Bar and Queen Italian Restaurant. By gathering these pieces, the museum aims to create a historical record of urban signage and the businesses that once thrived in New York City.

Visitors to the museum can experience guided tours, which are available for a fee ranging from $28 to $35. Tours typically take place weekly on Fridays and occasionally on Sundays, with details accessible via the NYSM Eventbrite page. Unlike traditional art museums, the NYSM encourages hands-on interaction, allowing guests to touch the signs and take photographs with flash, embracing an experiential learning environment that enhances appreciation for the art of sign-making.

In addition to the collection, the NYSM shares its space with the workshop of Noble Signs, where sign-making techniques are actively demonstrated. The museum acts as a dynamic learning hub, striving to educate visitors on typography and design principles while preserving New York’s design heritage amid the city’s rapid urban changes.

Sign Preservation Efforts

Many of the signs featured in the NYSM collection have been rescued from decline, often originating from the closures of local businesses. The founders have frequently approached business owners to advocate for the preservation of signage before it is discarded, highlighting the importance of these artifacts in reflecting neighborhood identity and history.

Notable recent acquisitions include a significant relocation of a 40-foot sign by Louis Zuflacht, which was moved from 154 Stanton Street to a secure storage area within the museum. This process illustrates the ongoing efforts by the museum staff to safeguard these pieces of cultural heritage and ensure they remain accessible for future generations.

A Deeper Connection to Urban History

While exploring the NYSM, guests often express feelings of nostalgia and emotional connections to the signs, further emphasizing the museum’s vital role in preserving the collective memories tied to urban history. The upstairs area of the museum features a library that houses literature on typesetting and typography, providing historical context that enriches modern design practices.

The NYSM aims not just to display signs, but also to foster a deeper understanding of the art and craft of sign-making. By serving as a “design library,” the museum inspires innovation and creativity among visitors, encouraging them to appreciate the artistry and significance of signage in shaping the vibrancy and character of neighborhoods throughout New York City.

In conclusion, the New York Sign Museum stands as a unique tribute to the often-overlooked art of signage, offering insights into the rich history of urban branding and business identity. As the museum continues to grow its collection and engage the public, it reinforces the importance of preserving New York’s design legacy against the backdrop of an ever-evolving urban landscape.