In the bustling streets of New York City, amidst the towering skyscrapers and the never-ending rush, a pair of artists whose craft harks back to a bygone era are keeping tradition alive.
Meet the Cevallos Brothers, two Ecuadorian-born sign painters who have been gracing the city's storefronts and buildings with their hand painted signs for over four decades. Their story is not just a tale of tradition and perseverance but a unique hero’s journey that stands out in the bustling streets of New York City.
Born in Ecuador but raised in Colombia, the Cevallos brothers, Victor, Miguel, and Carlos, discovered their passion for painting at an early age. Surrounded by the vibrant colors of their homeland, they honed their skills through years of practice and dedication, and in 1966, Victor, the oldest brother, opened a sign shop in Bogota. Little did they know that their journey would one day lead them to the streets of New York City, where they would leave an indelible mark on the urban landscape.
Just three short years later, in 1969, seeking new opportunities, Victor boldly decided to leave their hometown and immigrate to the United States. Carlos would later join him in 1977. With little more than their talent and a determination to succeed, they arrived in the heart of Manhattan, where they found plenty of work as talented sign painters. It was here, amidst the chaos, that they would begin to forge their legacy.
In an age dominated by digital technology and mass production, the Cevallos brothers remain steadfast in their commitment to the traditional art of sign painting. Armed with brushes and paint cans, they meticulously handcraft each sign, infusing it with character and personality that can't be machine-replicated. With Sharpies, paint, and their whimsical illustrations, their work reflects a timeless aesthetic that harkens back to a bygone era.
Over the years, the Cevallos brothers have left an indelible mark on countless businesses across New York City, from small mom-and-pop shops to iconic landmarks.
We recently became one of those businesses, reaching out to them via Instagram about painting a poster for us, which now hangs in our office.
Their signs adorn storefronts, restaurants, and theaters, serving as beacons of artistry in a sea of neon and LED. Despite the ever-changing nature of this city, their work endures the test of time, a true testament to the power of craftsmanship.
What sets the Cevallos brothers apart from other sign painters is their unwavering dedication to their craft and the community. As the years pass and the city continues to evolve, the Cevallos brother's presence remains. Their continued success is a touching display of hard work, resilience, and passion.
Prime examples of “The American Dream” are a testament to the enduring power of art in an ever-changing world. In an age of digital ephemera, they stand as guardians of a timeless craft, reminding us of the beauty found in the simple act of putting brush to canvas.
