{03.29.12} Space

The Writing on the Wall

Australian-born graphic designer Luke Stockdale was always fascinated with the entertainment marquees of yesteryear and antique sideshow signage. After moving to Tennessee, he founded the Whiskey Theatre design firm and introduced that old world aesthetic to Nashville's music and art scene. His latest project, Sideshow Sign Co. is bringing the typography off the page and into your home or office with giant throwback prints and electric lettering inspired by some his favorite vintage finds. Handsome and thought-provoking, they're the kind of conversation starters every guy should have in his place. There's an acute attention to detail, not to mention a unique touchable texture. Made by hand in Stockdale's workshop from fine art canvas or metal, each piece is expertly wired and finished with beat-up, rusted steel and salvaged wood. As the designer says, he's trading "carpal tunnel and coffee breaks for splinters and tetanus shots."

• Five percent of all Sideshow Sign's proceeds go to the Equal Justice Initiative, a nonprofit organization which provides legal representation to those in need.