The Library Paintings: Initial Ideas (Library Systems)

Based on research into different library systems, different symbols used within have been explored to see how they can work within a logo format. Initially the classes/numbers themselves where explored however it looked as though the numbers where the name, with the addition of type leading to confusion as it looks as though there are two names (see figure 1). Therefore the symbols alone where explored, the use of the slash which represents consecutive extension hints to the ongoing releases and multiple genres featured as The Library Paintings would always be expanding. Despite its conceptual backing incorporating the long name with the slash in a contemporary way was difficult due to the length of 'paintings which made the logo look awkward and out of balance. Placing the slash on one side and aligning the text allowed the logo too look less awkward and unfinished however this approach to gallery logos has been taken before (see figure 2). Therefore the use of [] square brackets was explored due to their reference to subgroups, as paintings is a subgroup of art (see figures 3-6). Throughout these experiments both serif and sans serif typefaces where explored to see which suited the brand more. Personally the use of serif give the logo a more traditional feel which may appeal to an older audience more than the san serif typefaces used. Navy blues have been used within these experiments to try and match the colour of the walls within the library room which is hague blue by farrow and ball, and exact match couldn't be gained as there is no corresponding code therefore a close match had to be used. The variation available with the use of [] allows for a diverse logo to be created which can work well in both print and online with the option for animation based on the position of the brackets around the text. Furthermore creating a negative of block colour also allows for another variation, creating a lighter less bold logo. In addition to the use of [], the colon has also been explored which represents relation. Multiple variations where creating looking at how best to incorporate the colon with the text without it looking out of place (see figures 7-8). Having the colour at the top of bottom with a single line of text is most successful as the simplicity of the design leads no confusion. Personally having the colon on the side adds balance to the logo, creating a more abstract representation of the referencing system. Shortening the logo to the initials fits with the colon as the whole logo is smaller however I prefer the use of the whole name. These initial ideas will be presented to the client to identify successful elements and areas for improvement. This will also allow the designer to gain a better idea as to what the client is looking for. 

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