International Council of Archives

A brief history of visual communication in ICA

Until 2009, the ICA only used one symbol to present itself, a motif based on the Roman god Janus, which was widely used by members to portray its image and to promote its identity as an international organization.

The first step towards a new brand was taken in 2009: a graphic designer was commissioned to rethink the ICA’s logo and to establish rules for the use of this essential communication tool. The results of this work were produced in a document entitled “Graphic charter of the logos of ICA”.
From then on the official logo of the International Council on Archives consisted of “Janus”, which had been used from the start, plus the “ICA” acronym and full title in both the official languages. 

By 2011 all ICA bodies had their own logo based on a variation of this model. It was now time to reconsider the image of our organization from a more global perspective.

Towards creating a visual identity

At the start of 2012 ICA acquired a new visual identity to complement its efforts to modernize and professionalize the organization. The task of refashioning our image was undertaken by the Franco-Moroccan graphic designer Zahra Sebti (http://www.zahrasebti.com/) who won a competitive tender. Her brief was to increase the visibility of ICA, to clarify and strengthen its image and to give it an effective and coherent presence throughout the world by creating a new and vibrant visual identity representing our values.
The result was the production of a graphic charter, a reference document which brings together the rules and principles guiding the use of the different graphic elements (logo, typography, colours etc.). Its systematic use allows all members of the organization to publicize their products within the context of ICA’s activities or to create consistent and coherent communication tools independently of the secretariat.

Strengthened communications at ICA

The creation of a modern visual identity capable of promoting our values of expertise and collaboration for an international audience is a decisive step for our organization. It gives concrete form to our aim to let the voice of archivists across the world be heard with greater strength and intensity and reflects our desire for transparency and professionalism.