Principal, Adam&Co, Boston, MA
adamncompany.com
lemonland.net
Title: Transforming the Powers Logo
Company: Brad Norr Design
Category: Logos/Marks
I find one of the most challenging assignments as a designer is to design a logo. I mean, first of all, does the world really need another logo? Everything these days has a “logo.” You can design them online now using automated software. But to be able to simplify an idea down to basic black and white forms, without type, without initials, without color—that, in my mind, is what great design is all about.
Brad Norr’s logo for the book Transforming the Powers does just that. It translates a rather large concept of global politics into a minimalist mark that speaks without words. Turning to wildlife as a basis for the ilustrative mark, he uses positive and negative relationships to show how a fierce oppressive force can in turn become a peaceful innocent one.
There was so much great work in the show, it was difficult to select just one as a judges pick. Brad’s mark stood out in my mind as a true design achievement. Effortless simplicity — without the assistance of an online application.
More About Adam Larson: After four years studying fine art, illustration and photography at Syracuse University, Adam Larson returned to his birthplace of Boston, MA to pursue a career in graphic design. Adam recently left Arnold Worldwide as a Vice President and Creative Director to start his own design/illustration business called Adam&Co. Larson’s clientele includes: Estée Lauder, truth, Sony, Dreamworks, Fleetwood Mac, Paul McCartney, Harper Collins, Penguin, Marshall Fields, Virgin Mobile, John Deere, Tommy Hilfiger, Time Out New York, New York Magazine, and Travel & Leisure. His illustration and design have been showcased in numerous publications, focusing on contemporary art and design. His work has also been recognized for excellence by various organizations including the Clio Awards, The Andy Awards, One Show, The Art Directors Club, Communication Arts, and Print. Larson’s personal work has been exhibited in Boston, New York and Los Angeles. He also recently launched a quarterly international culture, art and design magazine called Lemon.