Iron Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design · 2020
Ai Academy Branding
- A' Design Award 2020 Iron Winner in Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design
- Awarded April 15, 2020
- CLIENT: Ai Academy
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 11,073
- Verification code 6FE4D75B4B · Verify this award
About Ai Academy Branding
Ai Academy is a brand identity created for a company working in artificial intelligence. The logotype is based on monospaced fonts, which are commonly used in programming environments. The backgrounds translate the multidisciplinary nature of artificial intelligence into abstract images, without direct reference to technology. They were produced with experimental colour mixing techniques using water-based paints, then photographed and post-produced. The contrast between logotype and backgrounds keeps the logo clearly visible. Bold colours aid recognition in event and social media materials.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The biggest obstacle has been standing out from the crowd, today there are many startups that deal with artificial intelligence. The first goal was achieved through a design that took into account the fundamental aspects of the brand. The second goal was to visually translate corporate values into abstract concepts.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The project was carried out through the use of experimental color mixing techniques with water-based paints, all of which was post-produced to create the backgrounds that characterize the brand identity. The logo and typography have been carefully edited to best blend the abstract aspect with the technological aspect.
- Tags
- AI, Artificial Intelligence, New Economy, Smart Working, artwork,
- Production Technology
- for the production of this brand identity, in addition to the classic graphics programs of the Adobe Suite, the following were used for the background: a Canon reflex, Pantoni, Ral paint, rigid cardboard support and photographic equipment such as lights and softboxes.
- Design Challenge
- The most complex part of the design was to find the right combination between the abstraction and the understanding of what the brand offers as services, while giving the freedom to not have a definitive focal point on the only technological approach dedicated to some areas of the 'artificial intelligence but extending the possible services to a wider range without the need for a new brand idenity.
- Project Duration
- The project started in November 2018 in Milan and finished in April 2019 in Milan.
- Operation Flow
- The interaction with the brand identity takes place in different phases, first of all through the corporate material that are pro-rated in the various conventions and webinars where the client promotes his activity. Secondly, the users of any type, interact with the social part, specifically designed to be respected in the corporate graphics.
- Research
- The design of this brand identity has been designed to amaze, dazzle and differentiate the brand from its competitors, leading it to compete with international companies given the particular and highly appreciated connotation of the brand.
- Inspiration
- The inspiration for this project is derived from the translation of the concept of "multidisciplinarity of artificial intelligence" related to a fluid and characterizing mood without a necessary reference to technology.
Colors of Ai Academy Branding
Grand Interview about Ai Academy Branding
We created fluid backgrounds by experimenting with water-based paints on rigid cardboard supports, using a Canon reflex camera, lighting, and softboxes. The key was capturing the unpredictable motion of paints to symbolize the multidisciplinarity of AI. These visuals were then post-produced, ensuring each abstract composition matched Ai Academy’s bold brand identity.
We chose a monospaced typeface to evoke the coding environment and emphasize the brand’s strong technological foundation. This direct reference to classic programming fonts underlines accessibility and clarity, bridging AI’s complexity with a user-friendly identity. The typography complements the abstract visuals by providing structure amid fluid backgrounds.
Early experiments focused on capturing random paint flows to represent AI’s fluid, multidisciplinary potential. Through multiple trials with different color intensities and techniques, we refined a consistent set of images that aligned with Ai Academy’s brand values. Each background was then carefully edited to ensure consistency across various platforms, reflecting a unified visual narrative.
We deliberately departed from the typical tech-centric blues to create a brand that immediately stands out. Drawing from the concept of AI’s broad potential, we used vivid and bold colors to communicate energy, innovation, and a Silicon Valley mindset. This approach aligns with the goal of bringing AI awareness to diverse organizations, breaking clichés with a vibrant, modern palette.
We ensured each abstract element still carried a clear connection to the brand’s identity by emphasizing monospaced typography and consistent logo placement. For conventions and digital platforms, we provided versatile layouts that highlighted service information without losing the brand’s unique fluid style. This combination made Ai Academy’s offerings understandable while maintaining a visually engaging look.
The sharp lines of the logo and the monospaced typeface offer a structured contrast to the flowing paint textures. This deliberate tension mirrors the core concept of AI: a blend of structured technology and endless creative possibilities. By placing the logo prominently against dynamic backgrounds, viewers immediately recognize both the brand’s strong identity and its multidisciplinary scope.
We focused on differentiating Ai Academy by translating the brand’s essential values—technology, data management, creativity—into abstract visuals. The monospaced typography and the bold color palette provided clarity amid the fluid designs, helping the brand stand out in a crowded market. This cohesive visual system laid the groundwork for international recognition, culminating in the A’ Design Award.
Consistency was key. We adapted each abstract background to different aspect ratios while retaining the vibrant colors and signature paint textures. The logo placement and monospaced typography remained constant, ensuring brand recognition. Additionally, we used a clear set of guidelines so that every social channel conveyed the same visual impact, no matter the format.
The main insight was how effectively abstract visuals could communicate the brand’s core message—AI’s fluid and ever-expanding nature—without relying on typical tech imagery. We discovered that by focusing on color, texture, and contrast, we could evoke the broad scope of AI services in a visually appealing way, helping Ai Academy stand out in a saturated market.
The brand’s fluid visuals and abstract focus are designed to evolve with new technologies and emerging AI applications. By retaining the core principles—monospaced typography, bold color palette, and geometric contrast—Ai Academy can easily incorporate fresh background styles or additional color variations, reflecting the ever-changing nature of AI while staying recognizable.