Logo origins

Jun 15
2 min read

To land on this original design took a lot of trial and error.

Abstract black inkblot shaped like a jagged star or cross on a plain beige background. — Natka Archive Logo

From the start the concept of a star like shape for this company was obvious. It's my favourite shape, simple as that. More importantly a four point star.

A four point star holds significance with travel, adventure, pushing forward but also religious iconography.

Although I am not the first to think of this as my simplified logo. A four point star is associated with many established powerhouse companies, so I had to figure out my own spin to things.

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Originally my experimentation was questionable...I am not a graphic designer by training.

Trial and error, first attempts

My first designs were looking like this...I thought that a classic star look would be too generic so I tried thinking of some "original" shapes.

This is actually the same shape as the dot in my "i" in the Natka Archive header.

Now looking back at it I think Warner Bros would have something to say about this design.

The way I came across what would become my little crooked star was a complete accident.

Pleasantly enough it originated from one of my photos, which is extremely on brand.

Black-and-white cathedral interior with a large hanging cross above an ornate pipe organ under vaulted arches. — Bordeaux Cathedral, organs.

On top of those pipe organs are small statues. But Originally I didnt pay any mind to them, I was far more focused on the stunning shape of the entire instrument,

High-contrast black-and-white gothic cathedral facade with spires; text reads NATKA on left and ARC on right.

So grandiose and oppulent, I thought it would be a great design for a t-shirt, and although it hasnt made the final cut (yet.) I started to experiment with it.

I noticed that they already resembled something star like, I added, extended and refined it. But I left the little hands to add an original edge that was unique to NATKA.

White star shape with small thorns coming out from its sides. — The blueprint.

Here is the first "sketch" that I made in my photo editing app. The low quality is really the cherry on top. But! I was happy with it and I knew this was it.

It just needed some final touch ups... that blurry quality really cant hold up for long.

Two abstract star-shaped ink blots, one black and one pale gray, on a blank white page with a torn top edge — Scanned sketch of the final design.

To create the final version I decided to sketch it out by hand. Refine the edges, give it sharper points and keep some tears so that it still has this "degraded" look that is consistent with the aesthetic.

This star now is by far my favourite way to "mark" my products. It stands out and meshes into the Natka Aesthetic so seamlessly, keep an eye out for it around your favourite european city! Cause you might just see it. ;)

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