Say What You See: The Best Typographic Art For Your Home
I have always loved a good typographic print. Typography is the art of arranging type to make written language legible, readable and appealing when displayed. Traditional print setting is a hugely specialised craft, but the digital age has brought with it massive popularity of word art prints. Years ago, I spotted an Anthony Burrill print in an issue of Livingetc and immediately ordered as a present for Joe to give me on my birthday (if you want a job done, and all that). It was Work Hard & Be Nice To People and it remains to this day one of my all time favourite prints. I don't pretend that I do either of those things all of the time (in fact, I definitely don't) but I do like being reminded of it every now and then.
I do work hard (sometimes) and I am nice to people (most of the time).
My house is full of typographic art. If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know I've got several gallery walls and I love the juxtaposition of the word art next to older prints and photographs. Right from that very first Anthony Burrill print ten years ago, I've been pretty much obsessed and love discovering new typography and word art prints that can be added to my wall.
My Dad was always in a band, right from when he was at school, and we were brought up with The Beatles, Steely Dan, Wings, Supertramp and Pink Floyd playing at full blast from the huge amplifiers in our living room every Saturday morning. When we moved into this house, I really wanted a memory of my Dad to be incorporated into our space so as well as having his guitar on the wall, I asked Light Up North to create me a sign with one of his favourite songs on. Shine On You Crazy Diamond is, for me, the ultimate in pink neon word art and hangs in my kitchen as the perfect reminder. I'm currently planning a neon for the hallway with the words of what I would officially class as 'Joe and I's song'. Although if I asked him what that song was, I can almost 100% guarantee that the chances of him remembering what that actually is are less than nil (for info, it's the nineties classic 'Kiss Me' by Sixpence None The Richer).
Custom made neon from the amazing Light Up North in memory of my Dad's favourite song.
A couple of years ago, I made my own word art on the printer and framed it for friends - a really budget friendly way of creating an individual gift. Last year, I got creative in the garden with a tin of spray paint and handcut stencils (very, VERY basic) but as someone who doesn't have an ounce of artistic talent when it comes to drawing, it was really satisfying to give it a go. Joe's been the grateful (that may be stretching it) recipient of my DIY word art for many years. My house is full of wedding anniversary presents that I've made myself. When you've been married 17 years, just remembering the date, let alone getting an wedding anniversary present, is a miracle, and an economical one is always a bonus. One year I typed out his favourite quote from Forrest Gump and framed it; another year I used gold leaf to spell out LOVE on a black canvas, although I'd say I was more Mister Maker than Tracey Emin. I've followed the trend of letter boards and light boxes, although if you've got a filthy minded husband or just generally comedic children then you need to keep a close eye on letter arrangements.
Anyway, enough of my amateur efforts. Below, I've listed some serious art - some investment, some budget friendly, but all amazing. And there's plenty to choose from. Whatever your mood, whatever your style, you can find a typographic print to fit. I've scoured the internet to find you my favourites - there's quite a few here that are already in my home - and I can promise you won't be disappointed. Hold on to your cash tightly.
Jody Barton 'Down By The River' Signed Print - £23
Anthony Burrill 'Give The Joy Back' signed letterpress - £50
We Are Amused '24/7' - £35
Mobstr, 'Something Like That' Limited Edition of 60 - £120
Dave Buonaguidi at Nelly Duff, 'Norf Sarf' Limited Edition of 120 - £200
Dave Bourke, 'Love' Limited Edition of 250 - £48
Age Of Reason 'Feminist Plot' Limited Edition of 20 - £85
The Loft & Us 'Dream A Little Bigger' - from £10
INPO Life 'I Love You' - £15
Daisy Emerson, 'Don't Stress' - £60
Helen Ingham for King & Mcgaw, 'If I Win The Lottery' - £15
Andy Smith at Soma Gallery, Limited Edition of 30 - £75
H for Art Of Protest Gallery, 'Fuck It Bucket' Limited Edition of 100 - £195
Lucy Gough for Soma Gallery 'OK', Limited Edition of 50 - £95
Quirk & Rescue 'Artistry', Limited Edition of 50 - £60
Sarah Boris for Nelly Duff, 'You Are Here' - £15
So there you go - my edit of the best typographic style prints out there. Most of these are limited edition, plus they are all by independent artists which means you are supporting small business. Surely one of the best reasons for investing and not only that, they'll look bloody amazing on your wall, whatever your style. Word up.