Ed Mitchell of product design firm Bresslergroup came up with new designs for the 50 US state flags, uniting them with simple graphics and a patriotic color scheme.
The 'United We Stand' project aims to bring a visual harmony to the flags, since Mitchell notes that the current designs seem more divided than united to him. The new series of modern flags by Mitchell brings out well-known American motifs, historical events and symbols that represent each state. Some of the principles used to design these flags include being "so simple a child can draw it from memory," using only two to three colors and completely getting rid of all text and state seals.
Although they are abstract, the flag designs are sharp and pack a graphic punch. New York's flag is certainly easy to pick out, with its Statue of Liberty crown-like symbol.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Simplified State Flag Designs
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Designing state flags that are visually harmonious and symbolically representative of each state, using simple graphics and a patriotic color scheme.
- Modernization of Traditional Symbols
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Updating well-known American motifs, historical events, and symbols to create modern flag designs that resonate with a new generation.
- Minimalist Flag Design
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating flags that are simple enough for a child to draw from memory, using only two to three colors and eliminating text and state seals.
Where This Applies
- Product Design
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Redesigning state flags as a product that combines elements of graphic design and national identity.
- Graphic Design
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Applying graphic design principles to create visually appealing and meaningful flag designs that capture the essence of each state.
- Tourism and Souvenir Industry
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing new products and merchandise featuring the simplified state flag designs to cater to tourists and souvenir shoppers.
