Identity Designed #019
One year after I signed a new contract with my publisher, the third edition of Logo Design Love is now available in the US (Amazon.com) and Canada (Amazon.ca). For UK readers it ships in July 2026 (pre-order on Amazon.co.uk). Or support local and ask a bookstore to order a copy.
The content is around 40–50% new material, with new contributors, case studies, professional insights, and a deeper look at the evolving role of logos today. Fully edited, it reflects not only what I’ve learned during the past decade, but what many highly experienced designers have learned, too. I owe all the contributors a drink.
The book shares practical guidance on everything from idea generation to pricing and client collaboration, along with behind-the-scenes sketches and stories that show how enduring designs come to life.
If you'd like a digital review copy, or if you teach design and think your students would benefit, please get in touch: studio@davidairey.com
Elsewhere, some things I found interesting this month:
45 Symbols—Clay to Code looks like an intriguing new book from Slanted Publishers. “45 Symbols examines how emerging artists and designers develop systematic approaches to a visual language, inspired by one of the most enigmatic objects in media history: the 3,700-year-old, still-undeciphered Phaistos Disc, embossed with 45 distinct symbols.”
Enjoyed the February 4th episode on The NDA Podcast about the cost of pro bono work, with guests Paula Scher and Mirella Arapian. Catch it on Spotify.
Looking back at Maggie Macnab’s beautiful logo for Swan Songs, a brand that fulfils musical wishes at the end of life by organising concerts for individuals with a terminal illness. Swan Songs now uses a different logo — one without the same elegance.
Transform magazine asked a number of creative professionals for their 2026 predictions. Matt Baxter’s take was a focus on “the intentional, visible presence of a creative, unpredictable, unique, innovative human hand and mind within design.”
LogoSystem collates good logos from around the world.
Over the course of two years (2023–2025), filmmaker El Wheeler produced an excellent short film about the work of Dan Alcorn, Luke Tonge and the Birmingham Design team. Dan and Luke’s impact on the profession is well worth celebrating.
“We always think holistically—visually and verbally—because design and writing are inseparable in shaping a brand’s voice. We don’t see logos, typefaces, messages, or colours in isolation; every element contributes to the overall identity.”
From an interview with The Stone Twins, two of Ireland’s top design exports.
Tobias van Schneider named the creative legends who inspired him over the past two decades. A valuable list for those learning about timeless design.
“Test your logo before the world does” with symbl.space, an interesting side project from Anagram’s Guillaume Berthonneau.
Late last year I had the pleasure of chatting with Ian Paget for his excellent Logo Geek podcast. The episode went live this year and you can watch or listen via the Logo Geek website or on YouTube. Thank you, Ian.
Lastly, I was listening on YouTube to the stunning music of Rachel Portman, and when one track ended I was pointed to this piece by Jon Hopkins. Beautiful.
Until next time
Enjoy the small things.
— David
So disappointing when an organization abandons such a lovely mark like the previous Swan Song logo for one so literal