Jan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identity

The new graphic identity of the Jan van Eyck Academie was centered on a simple and straightforward logotype: the acronym JVE set in a commonplace typeface, Impact, in a conspicuously large size. The brief had asked for an identity system to reflect the flexible and open-ended nature of the Academie. Apparently, our new logo was an unexpected, if not outright wrong, answer: it represented the Academie in a pretentiously absolute and confident manner. It was so distanced from any perception of the ­theory-laden Academie that it, ironically, began to look appropriate.

But the near absurdity of the weighted-up appearance was not just an ironic statement. It did aspire to be a firm anchor, a clear reference, a visible pointer for the very physical place for people and ideas to gather, and to claim a certain – temporary? – autonomy in a world of constant flux.

This identity system was nominated for Dutch House Style Prize 2009.

Jan van Eyck Academie identityJan van Eyck Academie identity