Old Bogotá Bus Signs (antiguas tablas de ruta de los buses)
Date
Credits
- Ana Puentes Photographer
- Heyner Navarro Designer
- Unknown 110 Designer
Locations Made
Before the implementation of a new bus route sign format in the early 2010s (sitp.gov), the route signs for buses in Bogotá and other places in Columbia were made of wood or acrylic with letters and numbers that were either airbrushed or hand-painted (eltiempo.com).
These signs combine a variety of typefaces, sizes, weights, and colors, creating hierarchy and a distinct visual language. From what may seem like an incomprehensible jumble of words and numbers, these signs actually communicate important route information, such as the final destination, important landmark or shopping or neighborhood stops, and the numbers and names of the principle roads that they take on the route . Even the colors are used to communicate what company the bus is a part of (thecitypaperbogota.com).
These signs comprise their own unique visual language and vernacular that has been learned by locals and is specific to the locations that these bus companies operate in. However, since the Sistema Integrado de Transporte Público (SITP) implemented its own system of route signs, these hand-made signs have become a rarity and a souvenir item. The design of these boards left an impression on many peoples lives and are remembered by many with much nostalgia (eltiempo.com).
In an interview from El Tiempo, Ana Puentes spoke with Heyner Navarro, a maker of these signs, and discussed the history, importance, understanding, and process of making these signs.
