An Oddly Appropriate March Logo Remix by Jordan Boyd
Every month, the Pacific Northwest’s next generation of great artists puts their spin on the ThinkNW logo. Portland-based designer Jordan Boyd shares his path to a very appropriately timed interpretation, considering the massive snowfall the region saw at the end of February and continuously in the Cascades.
How did you initially want to approach your interpretation of the ThinkNW logo?
At first, I wanted to create a logo inside a thought bubble with aspects of all the PNW. Slowly though, you find that everything you want to incorporate that makes this place so awesome makes for a pretty busy scene. I drew inspiration from the one thing that has brought me the most success thus far: being in the mountains.
What are some of the specific elements in the ThinkNW logo design that you feel are unique/cool/fun?
I tried to stick with a minimal, fun, light, but adventurous feel for this logo. There is so much to do in the PNW, but I always have the most fun after getting to the top of a lookout and seeing the vast landscape.
When did you know that art was something that you wanted to pursue?
It wasn’t until college that I fully dove into my art career. At first, I wanted to be a teacher and was on the graduate-school track to teach early childhood education. At that time, I was taking portraits for my friend, creating concert flyers for local venues and logos for small businesses. I slowly realized that I was on to something and took the leap to become a freelance creative while applying my skill set within the community.
What are the biggest inspirations in your art (i.e., people, places, things)?
My biggest inspiration draws from my environment and the things around me. I’m very observant and quiet, usually taking things in, but I create once I see something that intrigues me.
Do you think that you have a style? If so, how would you describe it? If not, why is that?
I’m not sure if I have a specific style due to the versatile nature of my skill set, but I like to continuously learn, adapt, and create new stuff with cool people.
What is most important to you when expressing your art?
A sense of peace.
Where do you feel your art is going next?
Wherever it wants to take me.
