Sam Moses, the celebrated 75-year-old sign painter from Brooklyn, continues to infuse his craft with passion and personality, defying the digital age. Having painted since he was 13, Sam boasts over 62 years of experience in creating hand-painted signs across New York, a testament to his enduring dedication.
Despite retiring a decade ago, Sam was drawn back into his craft by Tommy Holiday, who persuaded him to keep painting. Now, amid a landscape where computer-designed and machine-made signs are the norm, Sam’s hand-crafted signs remain a rare and cherished art form. “Every brushstroke has a little personality,” Sam says, emphasizing the unique charm that only hand-painted signs can convey.
As Sam reflects on his longevity in the field, he expresses immense gratitude for his steady hands and ongoing ability to deliver quality work. “I’m just blessed to be 75 and still able to do this,” he remarked. His commitment to artistry continues to inspire, with his works scattered throughout neighborhoods like Bay Ridge and Coney Island.
Sam’s story is not only about clinging to an artistic tradition; it’s about the human element that hand-painting adds to it. While acknowledging the unstoppable march of technology, Sam insists that the imperfections and individuality of human touch are irreplaceable. “Every letter on here is not perfect… and that’s what makes it human,” he observes.
Through his journey, Sam Moses stands as a beacon of dedication and passion, breathing life into an art form that many consider a relic. For those in Brooklyn seeking a beautiful, hand-crafted sign, Sam Moses remains the person to call.
Article and image source: instagram.com
