About
After graduating from Emily Carr University of Art + Design in 2002, Jay has enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Graphic Design Consultant primarily with Letterbox Design in Vancouver. With 20+ years of experience, the projects he is most passionate about are the complex signage programs. Daily inspiration comes from appreciating the simple storytelling that signage expresses visually in the real world. Even in the background, graphics within the built environment can beautify experiences, and he is a big fan.
Jay Cervas, BDes
INSPIRATION
Jay’s passion for signage began with an affinity for dimensional type. At an early age, he came across retro coin-operated viewing telescopes installed along Santa Monica Pier in California—such ordinary objects, yet with many narratives. Layers of painted maintenance undoubtedly necessitated by seasons of salty Pacific Ocean air, the wear marks from serving generations of happy visitors… what stood out most was the raised monochrome text integrated as part of the casted metal components, enduring decades of use and has remained functional throughout. The text clearly communicates what the object is and how to interact with it right down to the arrow pointing to the hidden focus knob. Some time ago a designer composed the messaging, typeset it in an all caps condensed sans-serif font, and brought to life by a craftsman all with the design and fabrication techniques of the era. A timeless example of graphic design within the built environment. It is this appreciation and joy that drives every environmental graphic design project collaboration.
