Silver A' Design Award Winner 2023
Sejong Center's Identity Renewal presents a meticulously orchestrated still-life composition that functions as a comprehensive brand collateral showcase, wherein the visual hierarchy establishes itself through a sophisticated interplay of geometric pattern systems and chromatic punctuation across a carefully staged tabletop environment. The compositional architecture employs a dynamic diagonal organization, with the dominant pattern field comprising horizontal striations punctuated by vertical elements and circular nodes creating a rhythmic visual texture that wraps around a curved volumetric form occupying the right third of the frame, this element introducing three-dimensional spatial complexity against the predominantly flat pattern ground. The chromatic strategy demonstrates remarkable restraint and precision, establishing a foundation of achromatic values through the black-and-white pattern system while introducing strategic color accents: a vibrant cerulean blue envelope positioned at compositional center-left, cadmium yellow paper surfaces creating warm horizontal bands across the lower register, and a terracotta or burnt sienna element emerging from the upper left corner establishing tertiary chromatic interest. The triadic color harmony of blue, yellow, and orange-red against the neutral pattern field creates visual dynamism while maintaining graphic coherence. Lighting conditions suggest controlled studio illumination from an upper-left source, creating subtle shadow graduation beneath objects and establishing material differentiation between matte paper surfaces, glossy ceramic cup finishes, and the slightly reflective quality of the patterned backdrop. Spatial organization operates across shallow depth, with objects arranged in overlapping planes that guide the eye through the branded materials: disposable cups bearing the institutional identity, a ceramic mug with geometric markings, writing instruments in yellow and blue echoing the accent palette, adhesive tape rolls, and various stationery items. The facture demonstrates the precision of commercial photography with its sharp focus, controlled depth of field, and meticulous object placement characteristic of contemporary brand identity documentation, suggesting affiliations with Swiss graphic design traditions and contemporary minimalist visual communication aesthetics.
The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts is an old public institution that opened in Seoul in 1978. What is special about this identity design is that it tried to break away from the existing logo design of Korean public institutions. These attempts are a new combination of the old and the recent, and Hangul itself serves as a symbol. In particular, the use of Hangul as a logo is appealing to the younger generation as a new retro with boldness that is rarely seen in South Korea. In addition, beyond the logo, it was designed with various senses through typefaces, clothes, and books.