rockpaperink

July 2, 2012

Color Consumption

The Colors of Culture

Authors: Jake Lefebure, Pum Lefebure

Topics: Branding Identity, Color, Pattern & Palette

Viewing color is like looking at a piece of art. One man's masterpiece is another's eyesore. Since colors can invoke a wide spectrum of human responses, how do you know when it's right? On the recent rebrand of CulturalDC we were tasked not only to create an identity for a multifaceted arts organization (Art, Theatre, Music, etc.) but also develop a color palette that would be—well, palatable.

CulturalDC slogan

Artistic by Design

Driven by their mission "We Make Space for Art," CulturalDC has a strong focus on the emerging arts. Accordingly, we created a multi-colored logo that is a slightly imperfect circle. The logo works on many levels. First, it reinforces the concept of emerging; second, it presents CulturalDC as the definitive space for art; finally, like most "art," it's not always perfect, which reflects the group's unofficial motto: "Emerging Arts. It Might Be Good!" The color palette is as unique as the artists the organization serves. Inspiration was drawn from two of CulturalDC's main venues (Flashpoint and SOURCE Theatre) but the look is enhanced by additional tones that convey an inviting, yet serious tone. Translation: CulturalDC is on an artistic and ambitious mission.

CulturalDC collateral

Paper Space

If a picture is worth 1,000 words, then simplicity speaks volumes. With access to strong imagery, we made sure not to over-design the print materials. Instead, we incorporated more typographic elements by using a lower-tech look. Everything is strategically organized, but at the same time seems to "float and move" on the pages. Whether it's a poster-format annual report or a pocket folder cover, the "spaces" are alive.

CulturalDC website

Emerging Online

Creating visual spaces in a virtual world is already a challenge, but organizing every aspect of the organization in one website was a daunting task. We essentially had to take a fresh look at everything CulturalDC was doing and make the website adaptable enough to allow for "emerging" content. A strong color palette clearly differentiates each section and a slightly loose grid for typography reflects the organization's mission and personality. Perhaps our favorite part is the lava lamp-color-shifting CulturalDC logo—it's truly emerging.


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