BT ArtBox project supported by Allen Signs

Once a familiar sight on the streets of Britain, the traditional red telephone box has almost been consigned to history â€" but it’s about to experience something of a revival.  Lincoln-based signmaker and vehicle livery specialist Allen Signs has been appointed to work on a new project launched by BT which will see leading artists from around the world restyle that much loved icon of British design.

To mark the 25th anniversary of Childline, BT will provide each artist or a designer with a full-size, fibreglass replica of the Sir Giles Gilbert Scott-designed original K6 telephone kiosk.  The so-called BT ArtBoxes will be on display in high-profile locations around London between now and 16th July before being auctioned off at a VIP gala auction at the National Portrait Gallery on 18th July to raise funds for BT's long-time charity partner.

One of the designers taking part in the BT ArtBox project is fashion designer Giles Deacon, who appointed Allen Signs to vinyl wrap the kiosk with his artwork. His BT Artbox is now on display in Carnaby Street, London.

Following the success of this job the company on Whisby Way in Lincoln, which last year celebrated its 45th anniversary, received a further nine more kiosks to work on, including those belonging to cartoonist and illustrator Steven Appleby and designer Julien Macdonald.

Managing Director David Allen says it’s an honour to be involved in the project.  “We’re delighted to be working for such well known clients and on a project of this magnitude for obvious reasons; however, the fact that the proceeds from the sale of the boxes will raise vital funds for such a worthwhile cause makes it even more rewarding.”

“The phone boxes will be springing up all over London and we can’t wait to see the others we have worked on on display. I’m sure it will give all the staff here a great sense of pride and as it’s the Diamond Jubilee year I’m sure they’ll attract even more attention.”

To transform the replica kiosks Allen Signs printed the artwork onto vinyl using their new HP Designjet L26500 which can handle a maximum width of 1.55m.  They also used HP Latex Inks which are ideal for wide and super-wide applications and are water-based, thus reducing the impact of printing on the environment.

[Images show Giles Deacon's BT ArtBox in Carnaby Street (L) and prior to installation (R)]