Branding and Identity
A modern publication rooted in tradition
Duration:
July 2021
My Role:
Individual
July 2021
My Role:
Individual
Tools:
Aobe Photoshop, Illustrator
Skills:
Creative direction, Research, Graphic design
Aobe Photoshop, Illustrator
Skills:
Creative direction, Research, Graphic design
Context
House of Dastans is an online publication based in Qatar. It documents and provides a platform for people from various walks of life to share their stories. It has a strong emphasis on empowering individuals and creating a sense of community.
Project
I was responsible for creating a logo for House of Dastan’s Instagram page.
The idea
As the publication is based in Qatar, I was inspired by Dastangoi- a traditional verbal storytelling art form originating from the Middle East.
The geometric logo and colours are inspired by a motif from the Hamzanama, a beautifully illustrated Dastan (story) that chronicles the fantastical adventures of Hamza. It was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th Century and took nearly 14 years to complete. I wish I had clients who were that lenient with deadlines.
This motif was also chosen because the shapes seem to point outwards from the centre- similar to focusing on the individual and spreading their story to the community.
Typography
The typeface in use is Mirza by KB Studio. It is based on the Naskh script and aims to observe the rules of Arabic and Persian aesthetics.
I found that this blend of functionally modern and traditionally inspired fit the brand perfectly.
Scrapped direction
I initially wanted to design the logo primarily through typography. This was one of the scrapped explorations.
