DBS
branding.
DBS had a logo which had been with the school for a long time. There was some idea of what it may mean – but no clear story or relevance to where they are now and where they’re headed. It needed updating while honouring some of the elements of the original.
The upper tree portion of the logo was a modification of existing logo – a part the community indicated they wanted to keep. The roots were brought in to represent their school whānau groups weaving together into the school tree representing growth and learning. This root inspired design ended being a key element of their branding and used in everything from letterhead and strategic documents, to a mural on a wall in their playground.
waka | whānau groups
DBS have their school divided into whānau groups – each named as a waka and characteristic that represents qualities they are cultivating in their school. They wanted a visual style that was inspired by AFL logos – and primarily based in text, but representing the meaning of each whānau group name. They also needed them to be in the 4 school house colours which they are featuring throughout their school.
These logos are used on large signs throughout the school, and freestanding flags.
icon versions
DBS needed icon versions of the whānau group logos which could be used in places where the full name wasn’t suitable. We created flags featuring these icon versions – and whichever whānau group currently has the most points gets to have their flag flown on the school flagpole.
community room
This room is used by groups in the community and the school wanted the artwork and inspiration to be the Pasifika Community. They held talanoa with the community getting feedback from brainstorming, to concept to completion. I had the honour of being involved from initial concept, including choosing the paint colours – right through to illustration and installation of the artwork. The entrance with the woven area in the middle will be filled with greetings from the various languages of the Pacific represented in the school community. The artwork was inspired by plants, wildlife, and the tapestry of the rich lives lived in the Pacific.
