The art and design program at Missouri State University has a significant history with endeavors that have articulated the intention of Missouri State’s mission in public affairs. This department has been active in projects on a local, national, and international level long before the university’s adoption of the public affairs mission.
Having past experience with work-study positions with students from this program brought me back to Professor Maria Michalczyk to seek a collaborative project. It seemed appropriate to resort to the creative resources provided by these talented students, not only to tap into some innovative ideas but also to integrate them into a process for the eJournal of Public Affairs. Maria agreed to include a project as the first assignment in her fall 2011 DES-331 Advanced Typography class. The purpose of this assignment was for each student to develop a design concept for a logo to be used on the eJournal website and associated materials.
This project involved 18 students researching the field to construct professional examples and then develop three ideas for a word mark and symbol/icon. Students selected their preferences and presented various samples, placing them in context on a web page, letterhead, and other relevant applications. After they made a formal presentation to the associate provost of student development and public affairs, and eJournal staff, a decision was determined for current logo. This was an exciting process that provided 18 inspiring outcomes, with one yielding a great solution for the logo of the new eJournal of Public Affairs.
About the Image
This photograph appears in the eJournal through the generosity of Julie Blackmon. A Springfield, Missouri artist, her work explores the connections between everyday life and art. Her photos have graced the pages of The New Yorker, the New York Times, Vogue Italia, and many other publications. To see more of her work, please go to her website.
