Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Justin Young. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Justin, thanks for joining us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

I spent all of my twenties job hopping never finding a career or trade that suited me. I knew I wanted to do something that allowed me to be creative with my hands. I’ve always loved typography, all things vintage, and when I learned about sign painting it engulfed me. Sign Painting is considered to be a dying craft by some, which I disagree with, but there are definitely a limited number of sign painters these days. When I decided I wanted to get serious, I sent out emails to the few local sign painters in Austin, TX. I wanted to learn more and get my start. The most well known in town, Gary Martin, responded and invited me to have a studio visit. Gary has over forty years of experience and has painted some of the most iconic signs in Austin. I was blown away at getting a response. The day of my visit he gave me a tour of his studio, told me some in’s and out’s of the trade, and allowed me to paint practice letters on his easel. He gave me advice and answered all of my questions as I pulled each letter stroke. I left that day with a new gifted brush, some alphabet references, and the feeling that I was on the right track. I’ve since moved back home to Indianapolis, Indiana and started my own sign painting business. I still look back on that day with so much gratitude for Gary. His openness to share the craft helped shape my creative journey and his desire to keep sign painting alive that day won’t be forgotten.

Justin, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am the owner and sign painter of Juicy Signs. I help businesses curate vibrant, unique, and inviting interiors and exteriors. All of my work is done by hand with brushes, goldleaf, and paint. I work with branding agencies, graphic designers, and clients to bring ideas to life. My hand painted lettering allows businesses to stand out from their competitors who have typically been sold boring plastic channel letters or one color vinyl the past few decades. I’m proud to be a part of the image and impact of local businesses. Support your local sign painter and local businesses!

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

I grew up in a low-income household, and with no higher-education role models. As a high school dropout, I didn’t learn about financial aid or community colleges as options for myself until my late 20’s. Through community college I was able to learn skills in woodworking, art, and graphic design at almost no out of pocket costs. It changed my life and put me on a creative path. I want people to know that higher education is available for everyone.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a sign painting artist is the local community I’ve become immersed in. My typical client is bringing something fresh to their surrounding neighborhood and my skills getting to play a role in the community feels good. I am invested in their success. Moving back to Indianapolis and contributing to the city has been a rewarding experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.juicysigns.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juicysigns/

Image Credits
Brandon Burdine (www.instagram.com/_brandonburdine/)