LogoArchive's Logo Histories

Share this post

A Confluence of civilisations

www.logohistories.com

A Confluence of civilisations

Richard Wilson’s 1965 logo for HemisFair ‘68

Poppy Thaxter
and
Richard Baird
Feb 21
6
Share this post

A Confluence of civilisations

www.logohistories.com

“There is something in the nature of man that will not tolerate the unexplored. Always he finds his perimeter of ground too small, and restless stirrings prod his feet until he has gazed from every peak.”

This was the ethos – of discovery and exploration – that defined the 1968 San Antonio World Fair which ran from April 6th to October 6th. The event, known as HemisFair, marked a significant milestone for the Texan city as it coincided with both the 250th anniversary of its founding (1718) and the 1968 Mexico Olympic Games. The endeavour had initially planned to be a regional affair, originating from the dream of United States Representative Henry B. Gonzalez in 1962. Gradually, this idea expanded and grew (both creatively and financially) to become a visionary international exposition with endorsement of the United States Government and the State of Texas, and was officially registered by the Bureau of International Expositions.

Continue reading to discover the narrative concept behind the HemisFair logo. See how convergence and confluence was expressed through a bright colour palette. And read how the event came at cost to local communities.

This post is for paid subscribers

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
Previous
Next
A guest post by
Poppy Thaxter
A designer, researcher, and writer with a soft spot for exciting insights and storytelling. A recent graduate with a Masters in Communication Design, my work is motivated by a curiosity for learning and sharing information.
© 2023 Richard Baird Ltd
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start WritingGet the app
Substack is the home for great writing