Woodblock Logo explorations

Exploring an Alternative Symbol for St. John

In designing a logo for The Episcopal Church of Saint John the Evangelist, I wanted to explore a direction beyond the traditional eagle often associated with St. John. Instead, I focused on a more human-centered symbol—one that speaks to care, resilience, and the nurturing role of the church.

This unused concept features hands gently holding a poppy, a flower rich with meaning—remembrance, grace, and quiet strength. The hands represent the church’s call to support and uplift its community.

Aesthetically, I drew inspiration from the woodblock carvings of the Catholic Worker Art movement, embracing their raw, honest quality. I carried that same ethos into the typography, crafting custom hand-carved lettering that feels personal and imperfect—intentionally moving away from the overly polished digital aesthetic. The result is a mark with texture, grit, and a sense of humanity.

Though this direction wasn’t ultimately chosen, I love how it embraces both strength and tenderness. Sometimes, stepping outside tradition allows for fresh ways to communicate timeless values.

Would love to hear your thoughts—how does this approach resonate with you?