Love is a Sign is the studio of Sydney-based traditional signwriter and artist Ann Woo, creating hand-painted signs, murals, gold leaf gilding and custom artwork for businesses, hospitality venues, retail spaces and private clients.

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At a time when most signage is produced by machine, Ann is dedicated to keeping the centuries-old craft of signwriting alive. Every project is painted by hand using traditional techniques, creating work with warmth, character and a human touch that simply can't be replicated.

 

Growing up in Sydney, Ann was immersed in two cultures. Raised in a traditional Chinese household where Cantonese was spoken at home, she also experienced an unmistakably Australian childhood. That blend of heritage continues to influence her work, bringing together culture, simplicity and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship.

 

Her journey into signwriting began in her parents' Chinese restaurant, where she spent hours drawing and colouring in menus so she wouldn’t annoy her dad in the kitchen. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong fascination with letterforms, colour and the power of beautifully crafted signage.

 

Whether working on a blackboard sign, a café, a mural or a one-off piece of artwork, Ann believes the best signs do more than communicate—they create a lasting connection between a business and the people who experience it.

 

Ann holds a Certificate III in Signage and a Statement of Attainment in Traditional Signwriting, Pictorials and Gilding from Sydney TAFE. She regularly collaborates with some of Sydney's most respected signwriters, mural artists and illustrators, continuing to learn from the trade while contributing to its future.

 

Why "Love is a Sign"?

The name Love is a Sign comes from the song of the same name by the iconic Australian band The Go-Betweens.

It reflects Ann's belief that great signage is more than information—it's an expression of identity, craftsmanship and character.

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