Rotulismo Mexicano
Mexico, 2020
In January of 2020, just before the world descended into Covid-19 panic, I traveled across Mexico, documenting hand painted signs (Rótulos) and those who craft them (Rotulistas).
Mexico is famed for its history of Mural art, particularly in the Mexican Muralism movement that began in the post-revolutionary early 1920’s. Namely, José Clemente Orozco, Diego Rivera, and David Alfaro Siqueiros were considered the pioneers of the movement at the time. Their grand public spectacles conveying socio-politically charged messages and immense skill are integral to Mexico’s art history.
Rótulos Commerciales (commercial street paintings) are often considered as being Mexico’s other key form of muralism - ‘el otro muralismo’. These are present in the day to day experience of cities and towns, creating decorated graphic landscapes nationwide. While not necessarily being as monumental as the murals of Rivera, Orozco, or Siqueiros - the commercial street signs bring ingenious colour, character and often a touch of humour to the frontage of businesses, with the aim of making them more eye-catching and inviting.
From coastal towns to cityscapes, the artform of hand painted signs is a visible and widespread expression of Mexican graphic culture. Such signage can be found on taco stands, butchers, corner shops, mechanics, laundries, bars and more.
While in the modern day more and more businesses are opting for digitally printed signs, marking a decline of hand finished signage, the trade lives on across Mexico and is treasured by many as a flagship of Mexico’s visual identity.
On any day walking down the street, you might pass a Rotulista at work; with their briefcase of paints and tools for their trade. Often, their briefcases have their name and number inscribed on them creatively.
This photo series offers a documentation of the rich Mexican tradition of sign painting and those who make it their life’s work. The story includes topological documentation of signage that caught my eye, as well as studio visits with Rotulistas (sign writers).
Featured on It’s Nice That - March 2022
