Lexington’s Civic Brand

Last week as I proudly affixed my  “I Horse Lex” sticker to my car, I started thinking about Lexington’s image in the world, it’s “brand” some might say.  Of course horses and bourbon come to mind (both of which are completely awesome!).  And then there is the art scene – with everything from the philharmonic to gritty pop-up contemporary shows.  Food and all that entails – from growing and preparing it yourself to supporting others who grow and prepare it for you, whether it is taco trucks or haute cuisine – is front and center these days.  Lexington has emerged as this unique blend of the traditional with the avant-garde; a place where you can raise your kids and send them to good public schools together with chic cultural amenities.

I Horse Lex

I think Big Lex with his old Lexington horse imagery and UK blue juxtaposed with the notion of a larger-than-life, Andy Warhol-esqe, electric blue representation captures this distinctive balance one can experience in Lexington today.

I am hopeful we as a city will continue to develop the imagery and narrative of Lexington, and that we will tell it to everyone who will listen.

For some further thoughts on civic branding, check out the Urbanophile’s take on some of Chicago’s efforts: http://www.urbanophile.com/2012/03/04/replay-civic-iconography-done-right-chicagos-city-flag/

Big Lex