AN artist who produces expert hand painted typography is set to participate at this year's Sale Art's Trail.

Working from his garden studio, Simon Naish, who has been a fine arts painter for 20 years, has recently launched Hand Drawn House, a small business producing hand painted lettering and quirky, custom themed signs for both adults and children.

Simon’s paintings have been exhibited in cities including London, Manchester and Liverpool. His work is also in a number of private collections and has been reviewed in a variety of magazine publications.

In 2006, Simon was listed for the prestigious John Moores Painting Prize.

Hand Drawn House, is the development of Simon's interest in typography, print and the techniques of sign writing.

Simon said: “I felt I needed a new outlet for the more playful side of my work, where I could have fun combining my love of painting with my interest in text-based artwork and different letter typefaces.

"The idea began to take shape after I’d completed a private commission for circus and carnival signs for a child’s bedroom.

"I then began to hand paint a number of different fonts and and then started to combine painting with adhesive vinyl transfers to achieve different effects.

"The results proved to be popular and since then I have started to explore the potential of words, signs and slogans and to inject an element of humour into the work; such as using urban slang and turning it into decorative wall art.”

Simon added: “Every idea for a piece of work is different and specific to each individual. It’s fantastic to hear and discuss people’s ideas for projects, whether it is a child’s initials or a text piece for a living room wall, it all pushes my own ideas forward and provides fresh inspiration as well as new avenues of exploration.”

Sale Arts Trail ‘Christmas Bazaar’ showcases a selection of local creative talent at The Life Centre 235 Washway Road, Sale, (M334DP), on November 28, between 10am to 5pm.