Gemini-Bimonthly-Mailer-11-3 - Flipbook - Page 12
BREATHING NEW LIFE
IN PLAQUE DESIGN
Written by Mars Bravo from Signs from Mars
T
he origin of “plaque” is from the French word
“plaque”, meaning “flat metal plate”. This definition
still holds true, yet modern advancements allow us to
design and manufacture plaques from different metals or
plastics such as acrylic.
Plaques had many purposes in ancient civilizations. A
traditional application of plaques includes memorials and
dedications, incorporating images such as portraits or
symbols. Over the years, design elements of plaques have
subtly evolved with changes in materials and fonts, yet the
formatting principles have remained unchanged. Plaques
are often rectangular or in the shapes of ovals and circles,
as these compositions have become ingrained in our design
practices today.
I found myself curious to explore beyond these traditional
constraints to find new ways of creative expression. With
many technological advancements at our fingertips, such as
laser cutters, CNC routers, large format printers, and other
capabilities, we can revolutionize the production of plaques
within days.
I notice potential contemporary uses of plaques, such as
incorporating plaques into wayfinding signage to enhance
or complement the aesthetics of their surroundings. And
with the ability to paint or direct-print onto plaques with
any color or intricate image, there is no one more excited
about QR code integration into signage than me. They
allow for a deeper exploration of information through
smartphones, transcending the limitations of the physical
space available in a plaque.
12
Signage Spotlight
