Beijing Olympic Games Logo Posted by Steve | at 8/18/2008 12:49:00 PM

Many of us took a deep breath as we approached the 2008 Olympic games. The headlines typically spoke to the concerns of human rights and environmental issues with the occasional break to hear about an Olympian named “Phelps” who planned to break Mark Spitz Olympic record of seven gold medals.

The opening ceremonies left many speechless . . . especially after learning about its $350 million price tag. But leave it to me as the creative type to be equally captured by the design elements of this game.

The 2008 Beijing Olympic logo, named the “Dancing Beijing,” represents China’s hospitality, hopes and commitment to the games. There’s a lot of depth that’s depicted in the 2008 Olympic logo with customary Chinese culture, values and ideologies. The seal appears to be cut out of stone with its calligraphy accents and using the traditional red color representing luck. The logo is impressive and captures the essence of the Chinese culture.

The logo was designed by Han Meilin, a 70-year-old man who was imprisoned for four years during the Cultural Revolution. During his time in prison he studied the Chinese letterforms while developing his own unique style of painting. In addition to the Olympic logo he created the mascots for the game.

The merchandising for these games has been substantial with Han only receiving 1 yuan (US $.20) for his design from the Chinese government. Some things don’t change.

I'm interested to know . . .would you award the organizing committee the gold, silver or bronze for the graphic design in the 2008 games?

Steve Burlison
Catalyst Advertising