Gallery Row sign system
Community Redevelopment Agency, City of Los Angeles

Made of ultra-light panels from the aerospace industry, the signs have the unusual proportions of 12 feet long and only 5 inches high. When seen together in a row, these signs create "dashed-lines" that define the perimeter of the new Gallery Row district in downtown Los Angeles. The linear repetition of the signs and the serial logo- with letterforms designed to reflect the area’s historical and contemporary character- direct gallery patrons to the clusters of galleries within the district rather than merely "labeling" it.

Each sign is made of two staggered faces to address both the cars and the pedestrians equally. These faces are attached to existing city light poles to facilitate simple installation and removal for the many film shoots in the downtown area. The sign system also includes easily applied vinyl decals for the individual galleries, which change location with frequency.

The sleek design calls attention to the metamorphosis of the growing arts district and reflects the new vision of Los Angeles -- forward-looking and pedestrian-friendly– the new standard for Downtown. 25 new signs have currently been installed around Main and Spring Streets between 2nd and 9th by The Art Program of the Community Redevelopment Agency with more to come.

with graphic designer Brian Roettinger