Identity for Universal Leonardo

Jannuzzi Smith have designed the identity for Universal Leonardo. The organisation runs a programme aimed at deepening our understanding of the art and science of Leonardo da Vinci through a series of European exhibitions, scientific research and web-based resources. It promotes collaboration between many of the world’s leading museums and galleries that house work by the Renaissance polymath, as well as specialists from the realms of science and academia. Activities include non-invasive technical examination of Leonardo’s paintings (including X-ray radiography, ultraviolet and infra-red analysis, reflectance spectroscopy and CAT scanning), under the direction of the Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence and Siemens Group. The application of these modern scientific techniques of analysis to Leonardo’s work provides a glimpse into the mind of a true genius at work.

The identity reflects both this work and Leonardo’s interest in art and science more generally, referencing his ‘invention’ of atmospheric perspective: a scientific observation of the way in which colours in the distance tend towards light blue, which he was the first to employ systematically in painting. Materials and collateral designed by Jannuzzi Smith include a series of business-card-booklets, containing standard business card information together with a concise overview of the work and aims of the organisation, serving as an ‘elevator pitch’ in graphic form.