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Keiichiro Yanagi's Ancora Brand Identity presents a striking study in precision craftsmanship through the commanding vertical presentation of a fountain pen nib rendered against a luminous neutral gro
Captured within an architectural storefront composition featuring matte charcoal-toned steel framing systems subdivided into modular glazed apertures through which illuminated interior retail space be
Keiichiro Yanagi's Ancora Brand Identity materializes through a meticulously composed product presentation showcasing sculptural glass form and coordinated packaging system against neutral ground, est
Ancora Brand Identity by Keiichiro Yanagi presents an exquisite study in material clarity and reductive elegance, where two elongated glass applicators rest diagonally across a neutral backdrop of sof
Keiichiro Yanagi's Ancora Brand Identity presents a sophisticated packaging and visual identity system captured in a composed product photography arrangement that demonstrates exemplary mastery of con

Harajuku Design Inc.

Platinum Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design · 2023

Ancora Brand Identity

by Keiichiro Yanagi - Harajuku Design Inc.

  • A' Design Award 2023 Platinum Winner in Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design
  • Awarded April 15, 2023
  • CLIENT: Harajuku Design Inc.
  • Estimated Number of Design Views: 693,626
  • Verification code 783D8B071E · Verify this award
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About Ancora Brand Identity

Ancora is a brand store that sells fountain pens and stationaries. Nowadays, digitalization and information and communication technology have been progressing rapidly. On the other hand, Ancora focuses on the revival of analog in-person communication. Ancora reconsiders these values in which their way of writing, drawing from the heart provides joy that also delivers a special experience such as customizable fountain pens that can be combined in a myriad of ways; and ink blending using a cocktail shaker.

The presentation of a writing instrument's nib as the central subject of contemplation invites consideration of the longstanding tradition connecting fine craftsmanship with the art of written expression, a lineage extending through centuries of calligraphic practice and the veneration of tools that transform thought into permanent mark. This particular rendering elevates the functional object to the status of aesthetic meditation, its monumental scale and centralized positioning suggesting the reverence traditionally accorded to objects of both utility and beauty within cultures that celebrate the integration of form and purpose. The technical achievement manifests in the photographer's sensitive handling of reflective surfaces, capturing the complex interplay of light across compound curves while maintaining legibility of the delicate engraved elements that establish the object's identity. The geometric emblem, with its interlocking circular forms, suggests continuous motion and perhaps references the flowing rhythms inherent to handwriting itself, while the typography below employs a refined sans-serif letterform with a distinctive macron accent that speaks to attention to orthographic detail. The numerical designation further grounds the object within traditions of material specification and quality certification, suggesting precious metal content and positioning the instrument within hierarchies of craft excellence. The composition's restraint, its refusal of decorative elaboration in favor of essential presentation, aligns with aesthetic philosophies that locate beauty in purposeful form rather than applied ornament. The viewer might consider how objects of daily use become repositories of cultural meaning, how the act of writing by hand maintains significance in an age of digital communication, and how the tools we choose reflect values of permanence, craft, and considered expression that transcend mere function.

Press Kit

Unique Properties
The brand follows the basic rituals of writing: filling the pen with ink, scribbling to test it before writing, etc. Using a “for everybody” design, also unites the simplicity of the form with the complexity of customization. The symbol mark shows a handwritten line from the tip of a fountain pen (as a scribble) with an ”A” in the center which is the initial letter of the brand name. The graphic design expresses colorful ink drops and handwritten lines written by the pen.
Dimensions & Packaging
The size may vary because there are different types of products.
Tags
Branding
Production Technology
Many materials were used in the creation of the product and package.
Project Duration
The store opened in March 2020. Located in Tokyo, Japan.
Operation Flow
As a gift, a fountain pen is not just perfect but also provides a story on its own.
Research
Easy to select and choose by color gradients - All the items are part of the same brand - High level of customization A workshop where you can customize your pen to your taste turning a stationary experience into a shopping dream. - Everybody can enjoy. - A place to come to experience the colorful world of stationery. - Using refillable ink.
Inspiration
Ancora is a brand store which sells fountain pens and stationaries. Nowadays, digitalization and information and communication technology have been progressing rapidly. On the other hand, Ancora focuses on the revival of analog in-person communication. Ancora reconsiders these values in which their way of writing, drawing from the heart provides joy that also delivers a special experience such as customizable fountain pens that can be combined in a myriad of ways; and ink blending using a cocktail shaker.

Colors of Ancora Brand Identity

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Strategic Brand Identity and Visual Communication

We transform brands through strategic identity design, creating compelling visual systems that connect with audiences. Our award-winning Tokyo studio delivers comprehensive branding solutions from concept to implementation, including logo design, packaging, digital experiences, and brand guidelines.

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