OTIR Logo Design Explained

OTIR Logo was conceived with multiple ideas embedded into it.

Three curved lines represent levels of understanding that wrap each other within, never representing the complete & absolute truth, as there’s always more layers above and below.

Inner layer represents that there’s never enough digging down, as underneath there’s always more to discover, while the top layer suggests there are more complex structures above those we are able to interact with — or even imagine.

In one of interpretations, the central layer represents our normal perception and understanding; bottom layer — mechanics and reasons beyond their appearance; top layer — engulfing system of control above our lives and destinies.

Curvature of layers represent that the complete figure (circle) is outside of our vision; observing the curvature and using logic and our imagination, we can conclude that lines are parts of larger figures that we won’t ever be able to see completely but we may deduce they are there. That represents the usage of methodology and acceptance of impossibility to materially prove the phenomenon.

Originally, lines were intended to sit on top of each other. In the revision, the logo is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, to form multiple new meanings — like the waves from the impact OTIR aims to cause, or multiple smile emojis to reflect the positive nature of our research and lighthearted atmosphere in the collective.