Iconography

The Icons or logos of any product, establishment, or company are, in many ways, forever linked to the identity of that entity. There are two types of logos- the textual, and the symbolic. The textual is the most common. These are created purely from alphabetic linkages and/or configurations. Exxon is a prime example. It’s Double-linked “X s” are aesthetically pleasing but have no fundamental meaning. The symbolic logo is rarer and often is used to convey ideas, philosophies, or concepts for which the entity represents. Logos like the one used for United Nations perfectly illustrates its purpose- the countries of the world encircled by olive branches. The logo literally means: world peace!
Ever since the creation of Disneyland, proper logo creation has been extremely important to define the meaning of our parks. In Disneyland’s case, it means: a magic kingdom. In the case of Walt Disney World it’s meant to convey the vastness of the property with Mickey as its mascot and Disney in benevolent control. In the case of EPCOT Center, the logo not only represents the meaning of the park, but portrays the larger abstract concepts that are at the heart of the park’s message. In a short memo, Marty Skylar was asked to describe the meaning of this truly beautiful symbol…

"The EPCOT Center Logo is a graphic representation of the park’s philosophy. It symbolizes unity, fellowship and harmony around the world. The five outer rings form the shape of a flower – a celebration of life. The heart of the logo is Earth embraced by a star, symbolizing hope – the hope that with imagination, commitment, and dedication we can create a new tomorrow."

The E82 Icon and Insignia have been designed to reflect its purpose in much in the same way…

The E82 ICON
The E82 Icon exemplifies the philosophy of E82- the Celebration of Past Futures and the Legacy of Tomorrow. The original concept for Walt Disney’s Community of Tomorrow is represented by the radial spokes of the WEDway Peoplemover coming together to form the EPCOT Center Logo. Paying tribute to the Legacy of EPCOT Center’s original form, the Tri-prism Fountain serves as the centerpiece with the Legacy Sculptures on the sides- cradling majestic Spaceship Earth, they stand in tribute to the great big beautiful tomorrows ahead.
The E82 INSIGINA
The five ringed symbol of EPCOT Center surrounded by the radials the WEDway Peoplemover System from Walt Disney’s vision of EPCOT City studded with logos from the original 10 pavilions.

These two logos visually express my vision for this project. There are so many sites out there that all preach relatively that same idea: EPCOT Center is way better the Epcot has ever been. This opinion is so widespread it’s basically believed to be fact. I will not disagree, but I will offer that simply stating how good things were in “the good old days” is both irrelevant and ignorant.
I believe the time has come to embrace the full 44 year history of this remarkable endeavor. All of the many facets of Epcot’s evolution should be both celebrated and explored. It is my hope the unification of Epcot’s three eras will lead to greater understanding and influence changes in the park itself.