University of Hawai‘i System Logo Design Submissions
Three local graphics firms submitted the following designs for consideration in a process to select a new logo for the University of Hawai‘i System.
You may wish to review the project background, or simply click on one of the proposed new logos, below, to view the image design and narrative.
During consideration, designs were identified by number only. The design firm and percentage of public comment favoring each design have been added below.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Design 1 |
Design 2 |
Design 3 |
Design 4 |
Design 5 |
Design 6 |
Graphic House |
Clarence Lee Design |
Sae Design |
Clarence Lee Design |
Sae Design |
Graphic House |
5% |
1% |
18% |
9% |
6% |
10% |
Design 1
©2004 University of Hawai‘i
Description
The University of Hawai‘i logo design portrays multiple images and suggestions to capture its essence and enhance its interpretation. It is symbolized in the composite letters "U" and "H" which is created by the sails of the Hawaiian canoe that are wide at the top and taper gracefully toward the bottom. The crossbar of the letter "H" link the facing sails that form the letter "U." Together, the sails also create the form of the umeke, or calabash. The profile of the open book crowns the top of the umeke. "MALAMALAMA" spans the crossbar of the letter "H" in a rhythmic pattern reminiscent of tapa because of the unique relationship of the letterforms, in particular, the regular interspersing of the letter "A." The flame, organic in form, depicts the light of knowledge and appropriately emerges from the open book and the umeke. Books are an invaluable source of knowledge and the expression "umeke ka‘eo, well-filled calabash" translates –"well–filled mind."
This logo design with the background map is a contemporary adaptation of the Univeristy of Hawai‘i seal that positions the university in the center of the Pacific Rim, suggesting its global potential as a major contributor of higher education.