The Nike “swoosh” is one of the most recognized logos in the world.For many, it has come to symbolize sport and athletic achievement.Everyone from Tiger Woods, Lance Armstrong and Mia Hamm, to you and me, have worn ‘the swoosh’ while performing some of the most memorable (or forgettable) athletic endeavors.You may know that Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, originally paid $35 for the “swoosh.”Back in 1971, Phil contracted graphic designer Carolyn Davidson to produce a logo for his new running shoe company, Blue Ribbon Sports (later to become Nike).
According to its website, Nike (pronounced NI-KEY) is the winged goddess of victory according to Greek mythology. The Nike ‘Swoosh’ embodies the spirit of the winged goddess who inspired the most courageous and chivalrous warriors at the dawn of civilization.
It seems like a crime doesn’t it?Something so recognizable and identifiable was acquired for only $35 dollars. Was it a crime in paying her what she asked for, or was it in not asking more?
Carolyn Davidson ended up working for Nike for the next 12 years.Starting with the swoosh assignment in 1971; she stayed with the company until 1983.After her time with the company ended, she was invited to a luncheon with Phil Knight and others.There, she was presented with a gold Swoosh ring with an embedded diamond along with a certificate and an undisclosed amount of Nike stock, in recognition of the Swoosh design logo.
According to Carolyn “… I can definitely say that I have been well-compensated for my design”.
Sometimes, crime does pay…
Reference: http://www.nike.com/nikebiz/nikebiz.jhtml?page=5&item=origin
Tags: let your millionaire out, success
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