Kim Donovan is one of those people you meet and find instantly, irreversibly magnetic. There’s an unusual perfection to her eye — she’s able to see people and their goals in a rarefied way that allows her to open paths for them that would not previously have been open. To create a brand identity for her was irresistible.
Our objective was to develop a concept that was uniquely Kim — a way to personalize her brand and imbue it with a distinct meaning within the highly structured industry of casting. Enter the cephalopods.
See, Kim is a Cephhead—a peculiar form of nerd who is deeply fascinated and enamored with cephalopods. And, let me tell you, I have a soft spot for nerds.
The concept that resonated most strongly with me was chromatophores—the cells found in the skin of an octopus or squid that enable them to change color to blend seamlessly with or starkly contrast with their surroundings.
In a world where color-conscious casting has become a new imperative, and with the remarkable adaptability of cephalopods mirroring the versatility of actors in taking on any role, the metaphor seemed particularly apt.
The logo design is a simple asymmetrical type. However, it is the context of the logo that truly makes it stand out. By incorporating a custom texture of chromatophores in Kim’s favorite vibrant colors, we created a lively, energetic, and chameleon-like feel—a visual representation that is anchored by the contrast and architectural elements of the type.
As a result, KSD Casting immediately distinguishes itself from its corporately-designed competitors.
— Kim Donovan, CSA
KSD Casting