Graphic Designers

Top 5 Iconic Logos and their Legendary Designers

Have you ever wondered who is behind the FedEx logo design? What about Apple or the famous Google logo? Being in the logo design industry, it’s important for designers to know a bit of history too. So today’s post will be kind of a history lesson.

Here’s a look at the top five iconic logos and their designers who have given the world not just logos but brand identities.

1. Google Logo Design by Ruth Kedar

Source: Wikipedia

Google’s logo is not just a logo; it’s a representation of their impact across the Internet. It was designed by Ruth Kedar, a student of architecture from Israel. Later she received a Masters Degree in design from Stanford University.

Though Ruth designed the Google logo design in later life, her earlier association had been with Adobe Systems. She is also known for designing the award winning Analog Deck and Duolog Deck, a promotional deck of playing cards. Being a recipient of a number of design awards, her art work is an inspiration for designers worldwide.

Related: #DesignerSpotlight Seb Lester: How To Master The Art Of Hand Lettering

2. Nike Logo Design by Carolyn Davidson


Source: Wikipedia

Another woman to has designed one of the most popular logos in the world is Caroyln Davidson. Nike, the company known more by its swish mark image rather than by its name, is the leading sports accessories manufacturer.

Carolyn designed the brand’s image in 1971, while she was still a student at Portland State University. She worked with the company until 1983 and retired from her professional life in 2000.

3. FedEx Logo Design by Lindon Leader

Source: Wikipedia

Lindon Leader of Landor Associates designed the famous FedEx brand image, which is considered as one of the top 8 best logos made during the past 4 decades. Designed in 1994, it has won numerous awards for its simple and yet effective image.

The hidden message embedded in the FedEx logo is one of the factors making it a model piece of art for logo designers.  If you observe carefully, you’ll see a small arrow between the E and X! This indicates the fast and efficient delivery system for which the company is known for in the industry.

4. Apple Logo Design by Rob Janoff

Source: Wikipedia

Designed in 1994, it has won numerous awards for its simple and yet effective image.

Apple needs no introduction. Created in 1976 by Silicon Valley art director Rob Janoff, the logo design became popular immediately. Ever since then, it has been the official representative of Apple. Rob has also worked with IBM and Intel, but of course, his most honorable work is this tempting apple!

The idea behind the image is man and temptation. The bite on it is inspired by the Biblical story of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden apple. No doubt about it, Apple products sure are tempting!

Related: #DesignerSpotlight Susan Kare – How to Become an Expert Iconographer

5. IBM Logo Design by Paul Rand

Source: Wikipedia

Paul Rand is not only known for his famous IBM logo concept, but also for many other graphic works that he has done. He is considered one of the world’s best graphic designers.

After passing away in 1996, he left behind an inspiring legacy for all graphic designers. He is also known for ABC’s brand image and for Swiss Style graphic design.

Numerous other designers can be listed as legendary designers, and we will surely cover more of them in our future posts.  But for today … that’s all folks!
Michael Baker

Market research nerd with a penchant for graphic design and branding. A digital marketer by profession; a creature of the web by compulsion.

Recent Posts

How to Give Feedback to Designers in a Crowdsourcing Design Contest

In a crowdsourcing design contest, feedback is your most powerful tool. It shapes direction, guides…

2 weeks ago

The Ultimate Graphic Design Glossary: Terms Every Designer Should Know

This comprehensive design glossary brings together essential design terms in one alphabetical reference. From foundational…

3 weeks ago

Logo Styles: Modern, Classic, Minimal, Geometric, Monogram — When to Use Each

Have you noticed how some logos look like they could swap names with another brand,…

4 weeks ago

How To Run A Logo Design Contest – A Simple Guide For Startups

Logo design is one of the toughest challenges for early-stage startups. A logo isn’t just…

1 month ago

Which Industries Spend the Most on Logo Design (and Why)

A logo is often the first—and most lasting—impression a brand makes. Long before a customer…

2 months ago

How Clients Decide Winners In Logo Design Contests (And How You Can Craft Your Logo Entries Accordingly)

Design contests aren’t won by the most talented designer. They’re won by the designer who…

2 months ago