AVA BECKER
Graphic Designer
COLUMBUS AREA
BICENTENNIAL LOGO
Logo and Brand Identity Design
This logo was created in 2020 to enter into the design contest for the Columbus Area Bicentennial celebration in 2021. Up against two dozen other designs, this logo was chosen in February as the official design. After closely working with the committee to implement edits and create multiple versions, the final logo was debuted in August 2020.
Inspiration for this logo was derived from Columbus, Indiana’s rich history of art and architecture. The icon features
recognizable landmarks from around town; (from left to right) the Robert N. Stewart bridge, First Christian Church, the Bartholomew County Courthouse, and North Christian Church. Other elements for the logo were inspired by Paul Rand’s 1974 design of Columbus Indiana: A Look at Architecture, a chronicle of the city’s architectural history. Rand coined Columbus’ color palette of red, yellow, green, and blue and also utilized the typeface Avant Garde which are featured in the bicentennial logo.
Application
As the bicentennial celebration grew near, the icon began popping up all over town. Banners lined up and down Columbus’ Washington Street in preparation for the summer 2021 celebration.
Between the initial creation of the logo and the summer celebration, merchandise concepts were crafted to demonstrate to the committee and display the versatility this logo concept presented.
