Today we’d like to introduce you to Perla Gallegos.
Hi Perla, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was a certified commercial interior designer for over 15 years with a keen interest in all things lettering. After taking a paper sign workshop a few years ago; at LATTC, I learned about their sign graphics program and discovered a whole new world. It was then that I just KNEW that this was something that I just HAD to do. The decision to enroll was difficult, as it meant I would have to potentially put my career on hold to pursue this dream. Two years after taking the workshop, I bit the bullet and enrolled in the program.
As luck would have it, the pandemic threw a giant wrench into ALL my plans… school was put on hold and I lost my job. I was fortunate to have the support of classmates and my instructors/ mentors Ralph “Doc” Guthrie + Carlos Aguilar who hosted zoom workshops to help keep the momentum going. This gave me the push I needed to further pursue my lil sign painting dreams.
I decided to take the idea of becoming a sign painter more seriously and not just see it as a hobby or side hustle. I have been incredibly blessed and fortunate to have the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing clients who continue to spread the word and keep me busy. I am now working as a full-time sign painter and couldn’t be happier.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Well… making the decision to put my career on hold to pursue my dreams was difficult. BUT, I am incredibly glad that I did! Sign painting has brought me so much joy and a greater sense of community that I felt I was lacking.
Being my own “boss” is “different”… I am not used to bringing in my own work and fully dealing with clients, finances and all the things required to run your own business. It has definitely been a learning experience but, I feel that I continue to grow after each project.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a designer, calligrapher and sign painter. I am most proud of giving myself the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone and pursue a trade that lights my fire.
I am honestly proud of all the work I’ve done. I never thought that I would be doing THIS as a career?! I am proud of all the relationships that I have built and how I help my client’s business’ grow and succeed through something so effective and simple as signage.
I do feel that my background in commercial design has helped me with sign painting. Working at high-profile firms really allowed me to develop my understanding for client needs and expectations. It equipped me with the tools and knowledge to better serve and communicate with my clients.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I would love to see sign painting grow over the next couple of years. I hope to see an even greater resurgence and appreciation for the craft. It’ll be so great to see how this generation of sign painters shape the facades and storefronts of our city and neighborhoods.
I look forward to keeping this “old man’s profession” alive and handing down all the tips and tricks of the trade to younger generations.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.superlativesigns.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/perla.g_lettering/
