16. Cultural Symbols

We live in a world of complex symbology, where symbols with deep cultural roots are modified, editorialized, and juxtaposed to create ever-new meaning. Graphic designers often serve as interpreters (or reinterpreters) of cultural symbols through graphic identities. Symbol languages from the worlds of technology, law, gaming, sports, or elsewhere might layer meaning onto a brand by way of a graphic identity that builds upon a symbol from one of these subcultures.

Symbols

100 Principles

Imagery

Color

Dimension

Contrast

Shape

Symbols

Typography

Writing

Story

Order

Variation

Personalization

Psychology

Process

Production

Digital Identity

Trends

Shortcuts

Social Media

Multiples

Intellectual Property

Documentation

Evolution

Competition

Originality

Wit

Idealism

Authenticity

Commitment

Strategy

Research

Touchpoints

Inspiration

Simplicity

15. Shape and Meaning  |  17. Symbol Vocabularies