American signs

the long version

"The roadside sign is an American icon: a glowing evocation of the golden age of the open road. Yet signs, more than nostalgic symbols, are complex pieces of design that reflect singmakers' ambitions and intentions, reveal cultural and economic trends, and stand as evidence of vernacular traditions. [This book] combines text and image to analyze the motel signs of Route 66 - their concept and influences, typestyle and color choice, form and composition, context and placement. With its insightful writing, clear graphic diagrams, and hundreds of contemporary and historic images, [this book] is a singular reading experience and a groundbreaking study"--Back cover.