Sprocket, the Giant Robot, wins BEST OF SHOW in international sign competition
Sprocket, the 24 ft tall robot at Sprockets Fun Foundry, cranked up the competition at the annual 2022 Signs of the Times international sign contest, winning first place in its competition category and ultimately the coveted Best of Show award. In addition, Sprocket garnered the cover photo of the Signs of the Times Magazine, a sign industry publication and website, bringing further attention to this innovative business and South Dakota.
The design, fabrication, and installation of this custom-built sign for the brand-new state-of-the-art arcade and virtual reality entertainment center in Keystone, SD was months in the making and was engineered from start to finish to be a showstopper.
Ross Johnson of Ross Johnson Design Company in Rapid City, SD had a clear vision in mind when designing the logo and concepting the Sprockets Fun Foundry sign. He wanted something that would stand out, be iconic, and draw people to the business. He knew it had to be big; almost an attraction itself, and he wanted it to support the theming of the business. He wanted a robot. Ross called upon Dan Sawatzky of Imagination Corporation to collaborate on the project and fabricate the larger-than-life robot that now serves as the business’ on-premise sign. The design also includes themed stairs which allows guests the ability to climb into the robot for a unique view and photo opportunity.
Sprocket not only stands tall and proud as the newest face to welcome guests to Keystone, SD but he’s also added another honor to this small town, the Best of Show among some of the world’s biggest and best signs.
