Design Standards Guide, Greater Cincinnati Bicentennial Celebration 1988 [Graphics: Schenker Probst Barensfeld]

Design Standards Guide, Greater Cincinnati Bicentennial Celebration 1988. Published in 1986 by The Greater Cincinnati Bicentennial Commission, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. 10 x 10, 24 pages plus stapled coated covers. Design, Copy and Production by: Schenker, Probst, Barensfeld,; Diane Gregg, Kelly Kolar, Robert Probst, Heinz Schenker and Ric Snodgrass. Printed in an unknown quantity, likely for promotional and internal use only and never sold publicly.

“This Design Standards Guide serves as the basic reference tool for those responsible for producing all the visual material related to the celebration. Its intent is to stimulate and encourage interpretation rather than prescribe formulas or dictate design solutions.”  Overall, a lovely example of homegrown, civic pride!

From the Introduction by Richard J. Greiwe, Executive Director of the Greater Cincinnati Bicentennial Commission ... “It is difficult to communicate the personality of Greater Cincinnati to those who have not experienced its unique charm. Yet this publication introduces a comprehensive design system, comprised of simple but powerful elements, which embodies the dynamic spirit of this great metropolitan center. Graphic elements which capture the distinctive qualities of our geographic setting, historic landmarks and visitor attractions are the basis of the design system.”

A few short texts including: Introduction, Legal Notice, “The Look” and Table of Contents. Heavily illustrated throughout with colored examples for sections: Pictograms, Typography [Univers et al.], Color, Pattern, Torn Edge, Official Symbols [William Sontag’s 1983 Symbol], Applications [Stationary, Packages, Shopping Bags, Tickets, Magazine, Bus and more], Printwork [Posters, Map Cover, Advertisement, Calendar], Jewelry Pins & Apparel, Television Film, Signage, Venues and Mascot. Detailed Credits on the last page. 

Uncommon. A very good or better original American Bicentennial manual with a soft vertical bend throughout and lightly toned covers.