When we talk about stencil art, some imagine an artefact of industry-marking shipments or cave paintings in days gone by, while others think of the kid down the block painting on walls as a side hustle or a form of resistance. ✊
Designers, on the other hand, saw stencil art as an opportunity to give a brand's identity a modern and distinctive twist. Let's explore how!
A brief context: Stenciling is a technique that dates back thousands of years. A technique so old, that led researchers to rethink who made the oldest art in the world. Early examples can be found in prehistoric cave paintings, where hands were used as stencils to create outlines, forming the very first examples of human visual culture. Crazy, right? 🤯
During the 17th century, stencils were initially used to mark passages into houses of worship, demonstrating their utility and accessibility in communication. One of the most notable periods for stencilling was during the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Artists and designers like William Morris and Charles Rennie Mackintosh used stencils extensively in their work, creating intricate patterns for textiles, wallpaper, and other decorative arts.
Stencilling then found its way into various art movements, including Dada and Pop Art. Artists like Marcel Duchamp and Banksy used stencils in their work to make political statements and challenge traditional notions of art.
The Stencil Trend in Logo Design and Brand Identity: Let's break it down. The concept of stencils is derived from the need to reproduce the same characters rapidly and create consistent and bold letterforms.
In logo design and brand identity, stencilled letterforms serve as more than just a visual element; they act as a connecting bridge between past and present, industry and creativity. We all know that stencils tend to block out unnecessary details, focusing on essential forms and creating a sense of rugged authenticity.
They evoke the idea of an ephemeral message. Images of industrial signage and street art, lend a raw, urban edge to brand identities.
So what do stencil typefaces and logos say about your brand?
Stencilled logos convey durability, craftsmanship, and a touch of rebellion. The handmade quality of stencil lettering adds personality and character, distinguishing brands in a crowded marketplace.
Stencilled logos convey durability, craftsmanship, and a touch of rebellion. The handmade quality of stencil lettering adds personality and character, distinguishing brands in a crowded marketplace.
Like the stencil graffiti artists of the past, modern designers harness the power of stencils to create bold, memorable identities that stand the test of time.