Applying our visual language
To reinforce the strength of the York brand, our design system creates a sense of continuity throughout all University-related content. Using the graphic elements of this system – our visual language – links your Faculty, program or department to this strong, identifiable brand in the minds of your internal and external stakeholders. Here’s how these unique elements can help you.
Window of Positive Change
Created specifically for our use, the “Window of Positive Change” is an apt reference for York University, as we are a leading proponent of positive change through our research, scholarship, progressive teaching practices, advocacy and student engagement.
While simple and flexible, this design element is a metaphor for a progressive academic experience, openness to ideas, transparency, inquiry and critical thinking. The idea offers possibility and hope – as a witness to social, technological, political and cultural change. It places the York community in both the interior and exterior worlds at the same time, allowing the viewer to gain empathy and a broader perspective.
The window can be used with the colour palette and other elements to create meaning.
Pillars within the Window
Another feature of the brand system is a “pillar” that identifies sub-brands and Faculties within the larger master brand. Its various colours represent the specific sub-brands and Faculties, and there are many ways it can be applied to create meaning.
Emblems
Another part of the brand toolbox, a suite of unique emblems has been developed for use by the York community. To promote consistency, their design is cleverly based on the shape of the interior of the “u” in the York University square symbol.
These emblems are flexible enough to be used in print and digital applications, and provide another element for expression – from embellishing design to wayfinding to action items.
Because the emblems are based on geometry, we may be able to create new versions to suit your message. Please contact University Brand & Marketing for these requests.
Download Full Brand Standards
This website provides high level brand information, tools, templates and best practices however the full brand standards provide detailed rules on using the brand. Need help? Contact University Brand & Marketing for support and to answer questions about developing on-brand communications.