By day, Dan Lane works at a Co-op in Exeter. By night, he's a globally recognized logo designer known as the "Lord of the Logos," creating iconic designs for bands like The Black Dahlia Murder and Aborted. His portfolio spans over 400 logos, including album artwork and merchandise designs for clients worldwide, a passion he pursues in his free time while maintaining his unassuming day job. He's built this impressive career largely through word-of-mouth and online networking within the metal music scene.
In the bustling city of Exeter, a narrative of captivating duality unfolds, centering around the seemingly ordinary existence of a Co-op supermarket employee named Dan. By day, Dan diligently fulfills his responsibilities within the familiar aisles of the grocery store, engaging in the quotidian tasks of stocking shelves, assisting customers, and navigating the mundane realities of retail work. He presents an unassuming facade, blending seamlessly into the tapestry of everyday life, his true passions concealed beneath the veneer of his commonplace occupation. However, when the cloak of anonymity provided by his daytime employment is shed, Dan metamorphoses into a figure of considerable creative prowess, embracing the mantle of the "Lord of the Logos." This alter ego reveals a hidden depth, a wellspring of artistic talent dedicated to the intricate and often overlooked world of logo design.
This remarkable dichotomy between the mundane and the masterful is the crux of Dan's story. It highlights the surprising juxtaposition of his seemingly ordinary life with the extraordinary nature of his artistic endeavors. While his days are filled with the practicalities of supermarket operations, his nights – and presumably any other free moments – are devoted to the meticulous craft of logo creation. He meticulously hones his skills, pouring his energy and imagination into crafting visual representations of brands and ideas. His dedication to this artistic pursuit has culminated in an impressive portfolio of over 500 logos, each a testament to his commitment and the flourishing of his creative spirit.
This narrative showcases not only Dan's artistic talent but also the fascinating interplay between his public and private personas. It underscores the potential for hidden depths and unexpected passions to reside within individuals who might otherwise appear unremarkable. Dan's story serves as a compelling reminder that extraordinary creativity can flourish in the most unexpected of places, and that the seemingly mundane can coexist harmoniously with the truly remarkable. His dual existence as a Co-op worker and the "Lord of the Logos" is a testament to the multifaceted nature of human potential and the surprising ways in which individuals can pursue their passions while navigating the complexities of everyday life.
Summary of Comments ( 60 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43594396
Hacker News commenters were generally unimpressed with the "Lord of the Logos" article. Several found the title misleading, as the designer's work, while prolific, wasn't particularly noteworthy or high-profile. Some criticized the writing style as hyperbolic and clickbaity, arguing the story wasn't deserving of such grand pronouncements. Others pointed out the irony of a Co-op employee designing logos for competing supermarkets. A few questioned the legality and ethics of designing logos for other companies while employed, especially given the potential for intellectual property conflicts. There was also a brief discussion about the prevalence of generic-looking logos.
The Hacker News post about the Exeter Co-op worker who designs logos has a modest number of comments, mostly focusing on the juxtaposition of his ordinary day job and creative outlet. Several commenters express appreciation for his artistic talent and the unique designs he creates.
One commenter highlights the "Lord of the Logos" moniker, finding it amusing and fitting. They also draw a parallel to Clark Kent/Superman, emphasizing the hidden talent beneath an unassuming exterior. This comparison resonates with other commenters, who enjoy the romantic notion of a secret identity.
Another thread discusses the logos themselves, with some commenters praising their retro aesthetic and clever use of negative space. They point out the effectiveness of simple, yet memorable designs, and how they stand out in a world of overly complex logos.
A few comments touch on the nature of creative work and the importance of having an outlet for self-expression, regardless of one's profession. They commend the designer for pursuing his passion alongside his day job.
Some commenters express curiosity about the designer's process and how he balances his two roles. They wonder if he plans to transition to logo design full-time or continue his current arrangement.
Overall, the comments reflect a positive reception to the article and a general admiration for the designer's artistic abilities and dedication to his craft. There isn't much in the way of controversy or debate, with most commenters simply sharing their appreciation for the story and the designs.