Steve, Good job. So far #15 is our favorite entry. Here's why: It really looks professional. The fonts are nice, the tag line is in place, and the logo in general just seems very versatile.
We've come up with a few ideas, and see the left part of the logo in use in other places, print, walls, etc.
Here's what's interesting. While everyone likes this logo, we all have different ideas about what it is. Some thought the 5 units, where hearts, others said people (with a head, and arms down), and two said a ring of apples. Can we play with a few ideas, to make it a little more concrete?
Let us ask, what was your original intention? Maybe we were all wrong :)
Maybe try adding/changing an element -- making it more kid like??
This is hard for us, because we really like what you've come up with - but it's just not finished yet.
Also, because this was such a great entry - would you please come up with a few more concepts?
Let me begin by saying you were all 'right' - I purposely designed the graphic device to be somewhat suggestive. Suggestive (we might also say 'subjective') is a good thing when all of what it suggests is in the right direction. Having said that, the two primary suggestions were intended to be those of people and heart. You can consider the people as the little people you teach or some combination of them and those who will partner with them as caregivers/instructors. And, of course, we all know little people have a lot of heart and to suggest that you as their partners at the Academy do too is a very good thing. The multiple colours suggest diversity and inclusiveness (though the design will easily translate to one colour for certain media and/or economy). The soft, curvy lines are for caring, gentleness, and nurturing - nothing off-putting. Also, I purposely strode a line between kid-like and professionalism, believing your target viewer to be firstly parents who will pay the bills and thereafter their kids. So, after all that, I'm inclined to let this particular design stand as is, but I will put forth other suggestions if they seem strong and equally appropriate. Thanks very much for the look and consideration. Cheers, Steve.
I'm still of the opinion that a functional design in this context will be of fun and casual but tempered with practical necessity. Both of my designs are graphically simple, playful, relevantly suggestive, while remaining professional and entirely portable across all media...
...stripped things back a bit and retained what I think are the key elements, keeping things visually simple and versatile across media. BTW, my vectors are simple enough to be cut in vinyl for application on walls, glass, etc. And the main graphic would be a fine device on clothing, mugs, etc...