This is a branding project for René Magritte, based on the elements and style of his paintings. The design is referenced and focused on one of his significant painting “The Son of Man.” The hat in vector graphic style resonates with the bowler hat in the painting. René’s initial “R” in green symbolises the green apple and is reflected vertically in order to fit in René’s unusual and interesting composition. Some letters in his name are changed to red to echo with the tie of the man. The overall logo shows an implied outline of an upper body and gives a parody of “The Son of Man.” It also follows his style of simple graphic with everyday imagery. To allow the logo to suit in different background and context, the colour of the letters are modified to white for dark backgrounds.
The visual graphics that will be used for this branding and merchandises are the components chosen from “The Son of Man” and “The Big Family,” that is, the man in suit and a flying bird. These symbolic elements include a brown hat, a green apple, a red tie and a blue bird are used to form a pattern. In order to let the viewers further connect with his works, the pattern is arranged to give the impression of “Golconda,” another oil painting by René. Overall, this project brands René Magritte in a modern and contemporary design. It is simple, symbolic, minimal and memorable. By using the same elements in the logo and pattern, it helps the branding to be more unify and consistent. Besides, it also makes a deeper connection with René’s significant artworks that brings awareness and resonances with viewers.
