Steve “ESPO” Powers was once a writer for “On The Go” magazine, as well as a prominent graffiti artist during the 1980’s to 1990’s in New York City. He became a full-time studio artist in 2000. Many of his works have been seen throughout the upper east coast metropolitan areas, as well as throughout pop culture. His “Love Letters to the City” signage project transforms flavorless architecture into romantic literary works of art.

Steve and a small crew paint the signs by hand utilizing spray and hand-roller techniques. The attention to detail is evident in the simplicity of each project and the choice of location brings beauty to otherwise bland and lifeless architecture.

Powers uses playful typefaces and eccentric colors to accompany phrases that can be cheerful or cheeky.

His artwork is juxtaposed into contrasting environments that look almost dystopian, giving them new life and character. Powers’ signage projects are more than just wayfinding, they are a testament that hand-painted signage will always prove its worth in providing aesthetic value to the structures on which they are applied.

Images courtesy of (C) Steve Powers