Ghost Signs: Illuminating Forgotten Stories with Sam Roberts

Ever wondered how the fading painted signs on old buildings tell stories of a bygone era? Curious about the hidden cultural narratives they hold? Join us on Undercurrent Stories as we dive into fascinating tales of ghost signs with Sam Roberts, an expert in the field. Sam takes us on a global tour, unearthing the history of ghost signs and how they've withstood the test of time in various parts of the world. From the UK to Egypt, we uncover narratives that these signs hold, the history of commercial paint on walls dating back to Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the oldest ghost sign in Bath, England, from the 1820s.

In our deep-dive conversation, Sam enlightens us on the intriguing palimpsest effect of ghost signs, where multiple layers of paint can be seen underneath older signs, and the impact of UV light on these pigments. We also navigate the ethical questions surrounding outdoor advertising and its role in shaping our field of vision, providing a unique perspective on the ever-evolving world of public advertising. Sam also shares his insight on different global regulations concerning advertising in public spaces, giving us a fresh look into how various cultural contexts shape this dialogue.

The journey doesn't stop there! We explore the preservation of these unique signs with Sam. He introduces us to his methods, including local listings, conservation zones, and the crucial role of educating property owners about the historical and cultural value of these signs. We also get a sneak peek into Sam's book on ghost signs, the process of creating it, and his tips for those interested in discovering ghost signs. Join us as we unravel the world of ghost signs, their preservation, and the iconic narratives they hold within them. Tune in, look up, and let's uncover some stories!

Sam's links:
https://ghostsigns.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/mrghostsigns/

Chapters:
(0:00:06) - Exploring Ghost Signs
(0:10:11) - Ghost Signs
(0:17:52) - Ghost Signs
(0:30:43) - Preservation of Ghost Signs
(0:45:26) - Publishing a Book on Urban Signs
(0:50:57) - Discovering Ghost Signs in Urban Areas
(0:56:24) - Preservation and Conservation of Ghost Signs

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