In 2022, the Field Museum acquired an Archaeopteryx or “ancient wing”, an incredibly rare “transitional fossil” specimen that reveals the evolutionary link between dinosaurs and modern birds. The Chicago Archaeopteryx is only the second on display in the western hemisphere. Bark had a unique opportunity to create the identity for “the most important fossil ever discovered”.
The Chicago Archaeopteryx is one of only 14 Archaeopteryx skeletons in the world. This 100% complete fossil is considered the best preserved specimen.
Logomark
Scientific illustrations, renderings, and details uncovered by the Museum’s fossil preparators gave flight to Archaeopteryx’s identity. The use of the Field's brand fonts and Chicago's official blue roots this Jurassic dinosaur in the city it now calls home.
Brand Guidelines and Assets
With many applications for this identity, various lockups were developed to provide the Field with flexibility for using the logo mark and logotype. From t-shirts and drinkware, to the exhibit itself, the strength of the identity honors the importance of the fossil.
In the Wild
On your next trip to the Field, you’ll probably see the Chicago Archaeopteryx throughout the Museum. The identity can be seen on merch in the Museum’s store, and in the exhibit, which also features a life-size cast of the fossil allowing visitors to feel the intricately preserved details of the specimen.
Governor JB Pritzker was part of the celebration during the exhibit's opening.
The identity greets visitors at the exhibit.
A Museum guest touches the life-size cast.
Some of the various logo applications can be found in the Museum store.
All photos courtesy of the Field Museum
