After some cursory research into quilting in Russia, I have discovered that the new logo and branding identity for the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic games will be comprised of a medely of geometric patterns based on traditional Russian quilt designs! Credit to this small but mighty American quilting blog:
The Olympics organizing committee wanted a special symbol to illustrate both the diversity and unity of Russia. So the 16 folk images within the patterns represent Russia’s different nations and cultures.
Based on the press conference, the designs were “created from the motifs of ornaments of the most famous Russian national crafts. Here we can see Uftyuzhskaya painting and Vologda lace, Gzhel and Zhostovo painting, Kubachi patterns and Pavlov Posad shawls, Mezenskaya painting and Khokhloma, Yakutsk patterns and Ivanovo chintz.”
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| Unveiling the Logo for Sochi 2014 |
The logo is fresh and colorful, much more colorful than traditional Winter Olympics designs, which tend towards the monochromatic and understated. What's exceptional about this logo is the cultural specific link, as well as a sporting event giving the visual arts and crafts a place in their halls! The pattern will be applied all over Russia, including usage on trains and in other public spaces. I am sure the Russian Quilters Association, based in Saint Petersburg, must be proud.
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| Various variations of the banners. |
More news on this topic to come, as we get closer and closer to 2014!
