It was an event filled with design, creativity, technique, visual impact, debate and discussion. Nine graphics industry experts – specializing in everything from vinyl installation to wide-format printing to sign graphics – recently gathered in Phoenix, Ariz., to judge entries submitted for the North American territory of the 2008 MACtac Graphics Worldwide Awards program.

This prestigious program highlights high-impact visual communication projects using any MACtac graphic product, including IMAGin wide-format digital media, Permacolor® overlaminates and mounting films, MACmark marking films and MACscreen screen printing products.

As 2008 marked the third edition of MACtac Graphics Worldwide Awards for the United States, Canada and Mexico, this year’s program brought more entries than the 2004 or 2006 Awards. With nearly 150 entries submitted within the award program’s four categories – Vehicle Graphics, Technical Achievement, Exterior Signs and Interior Signs – the judges had much to consider and discuss.

The expert industry panel that judged the North American territory of the 2008 MACtac Graphics Worldwide Awards was comprised of editors and publishers of leading sign industry and digital publications, as well as independent experts in the fields of design, digital printing, sign-making and application skills.

“The vehicle graphics, interior and exterior signs categories featured the most entries, showing the breadth of MACtac’s product line, which includes digital media as well as computer-aided signage, mounting adhesive and laminating films. The technical category really reflects MACtac’s product innovation by showcasing what inspiration can do when mixed with the art of true application expertise,” said Rick Moore, Director of Marketing, MACtac Graphic Products. “The MACtac Graphics Worldwide Awards program is the only awards program that reflects current trends in the industry on a global scale, but it is another resource for learning; what works, what doesn’t, best practices, etc.”