Designing the Dream: The Story Behind the Dreamwork Ohio Logo
Finding a logo to represent your brand is no easy task. In fact, it can be overwhelming. Some people will tell you that branding doesn’t matter when you’re just starting out. Others will stress the importance of doing deep research into color psychology and design theory. I found myself caught between both perspectives, trying to find the perfect visual to represent Dreamwork Ohio.
Ironically, the logo that now proudly represents our brand came to me completely by mistake.
The original design was flipped and made up of bold, primary colors. At first glance, it looked like an abstract cloud, which already felt aligned with our mission of helping people dream bigger and reach higher. But once I rotated the image, something clicked. I saw it. Hidden in the negative space was the word OHIO.
That moment changed everything.
In one shape, the logo captured both the "dream" symbolized by the soft, abstract cloud and our Ohio roots, spelled out clearly in the design. It was the perfect visual metaphor for who we are and why we exist: to help individuals and communities unlock their hidden potential right here in Ohio.
The final step was choosing the right color palette. I moved away from primary colors and opted for cooler, more modern tones like blues, purples, and greens. These colors speak to innovation, calm strength, and growth. They give the logo a vibrant but grounded feel. The color selection was the final piece that made this dream a reality. (No pun intended.)
Every time I see this logo now, I’m reminded that even beautiful things can come out of unexpected moments. Just like our work at Dreamwork Ohio, this logo is about possibility, transformation, and being proud of where you come from while reaching for where you want to go.
What started as a happy accident became a symbol of purpose and pride. And I wouldn’t change a thing.
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