Local designers win international stroke symbol competition
Posted 26th October, 2012
An indigo-coloured string representing solidarity on stroke, the second biggest cause of death in Australia and around the world, has won an international design contest organised by the World Stroke Organisation. It represents the connection between all people touched by stroke.
The string symbolises the connection between all people touched by stroke, the flow of blood and the healthy function of the brain and body. It will enable key messages on stroke prevention, treatment and long-term quality care and support to be recognised under one international stroke solidarity awareness symbol.
Melbourne graphic designers Anna Carlile and Joanna Gardener of Viola Design beat entries from all over the world with their simple and elegant symbol designed to represent the solidarity of stroke awareness.
In 2010 the WSO called for the creation of a unifying symbol that could be unmistakeably and globally recognised as a sign of support for the stroke community. Last year a panel comprised of prominent stroke professionals from all over the world selected Viola‟s design.
Organisers of the contest said they selected the „solidarity string‟ because it was a “dynamic and versatile” symbol that could be applied to a variety of campaign materials and was a “strong identifier for the voice of stroke”.
Ms Carlile, who was invited by the National Stroke Foundation to submit an entry, said they had designed the symbol around a string because “the continuity of a line in a string could represent the solidarity of stroke awareness … and could be worn to spread awareness and to show solidarity.”
World Stroke Organisation president Professor Stephen Davis, who is himself from Melbourne, said it was wonderful that stroke now had an emblem that would raise the profile of the disease.
“Internationally, stroke has been lacking its own distinct symbol, something that is readily identified – one look and you know you are seeing support for the fight against stroke,” Professor Davis said.
Stroke Foundation chief executive Erin Lalor said the design would be used in the stroke community around the world
“I‟m delighted that out of all the designs submitted, Viola Designs entry was chosen,” Dr Lalor said.
Ms Carlile said she was thrilled to have won.
“It really is a tremendous honour to be able to create an international symbol, especially one for such an important cause,” she said.
The Solidarity String will be launched on World Stroke Day, 29 October. Wearing the solidarity string signifies empowerment and being united with the stroke community. It can be worn on any day of the year, but especially on World Stroke Day.
