By Dave Kers
Wednesday, December 7th, 2016
Tampa, Florida
Growing up in New York in the late nineties and early two thousands, Milton Glaser's iconic symbol was everywhere. Being born 10 years after his (now legendary) logo had already picked up prominent use, It never crossed my mind to think about a world without it. To me, New York as an organized, developed society began in 1977. Prior to that it was basically Sodom and Gomorrah. A lawless, place with cannibalism, rape and total lack of moral code. But then out of nowhere, a savior, created an emotion that the people were missing. Milton Glaser materialized love single handed and gave it to the people in a clear, simple form; with 3 letters and a heart symbol.
Everyone can agree that they love New York. Whether they're in the amazing city (or state), or in a different city, like me in Tampa, Florida or on the other side of the globe. Thanks to Milton, we can flip a trusty switch in our brain that tells us to Love New York. It's so trusty in fact, that for the first time ever China will be distributing a beer with the mark starting next year!
After 40 years of marketing, advertising, and branding to Chinese tourists, the symbol has become just as iconic in the East. Millions of t-shirts, mugs, pins, books, posters, toys and countless other products have allowed Asian tourists to bring a little bit of New York love back home.
This distribution deal marks a new era in New York's economy as well as American democracy in Asia. By exporting such a massively successful idea - Milton will again give love to the people again, only this time - on an international scale. I Love New York will be a mascot for creativity in the west world and will represent not only the people of New York, but also America. Hopefully this will pave the way for future designers to grow their ideas with a similar path.
About the Author
Dave Kers was raised in Staten Island, received his bachelors in graphic design from the New York Institute of Technology and his masters in design & media management from the Miami International Institute of Art & Design.
