New York Signs

New York is an overwhelming visual experience.  Most of the time, we shut down our sensors out of self-protection when we're in such a stimulating environment.  Knowing this, smart sign-makers play, "made you look!" with all kinds of clever devices. 

Here are a few I found today. 

First, there's the "repetition method."  Repeat the message often and it might be heard.  Remember, anything in quantity is interesting.  And $39 is a nice looking number, all round and, like, happy!

Then, there's the unusual typography method of attention gathering.  This deli is nothing special, but their sign certainly is!

Of course, we've been talking about Target here recently, so I couldn't resist a shot of this sign, which contributes to the wonderful (fictitious) story of Target as source for all things hip and designed.

And, finally, an example of the power of a simple concept and a simple name.  In this case: 99¢, with the banner thrown in as a bonus!

And, in case I didn't make it clear enough...

as much for its visual cacophony as for anything else!

Comments

[Kristin]

Sheesh, the only signs I am seeing lately are the ones between catcher's legs. I gotta venture outta the house more! JK, cool pics. We did hit Newbury St. yesterday where Laura commented that it was feeling a bit Village-y. The people watching was good as ever and spotted a Ferrari - I always see a nice ride down there. And a memorable sign was at Ben and Jerry's advertising their new flavor Chocolate Therapy. I highly recomend it - it lived up to its claims. Wonder when I will get back to NYC...

[Laura]

Looks like you're havin' fun in your backyard again!!

Another favorite device of mine (which you don't see too much in NYC, because in the big city a store can specialize in one thing and not need to explain itself, but you see it a lot in the sticks) is the "secondary promise." So, if you see a camera shop, and you don't really want a camera but the sign says "cameras and etc." you're supposed to think, "oh! maybe I need some etc.! I'll see what kind of etc. they have here!" I chalk it up to laziness.

Shops or eateries that are called...
"Cookies, Etc."
"Vickie's Beauty Supplies Plus"
"Carlos Hot Dogs -n- More"
"Weinrich High Quality Smoked Meats 'n Such"
"Armetta's Pizza Too" (this one always confuses me)