NANTOU Ancient City (or Nantou Ancient Town), a historical gem located in Nanshan District, is soliciting a new logo worldwide, offering up to 30,000 yuan (US$4,185) for top prize in a global design competition launched July 7. Designers worldwide are invited to create an emblem that captures the spirit and heritage of this nearly 1,700-year-old landmark.

What should the logo convey?

Nantou Ancient City hopes the chosen logo will embody multiple layers of meaning, reflecting historical depth, revitalized vitality and Shenzhen’s inclusiveness, all while delivering a strong visual impact. The logo should capture the profound charm of a Lingnan ancient town shaped by nearly 1,700 years of history, while also expressing fresh energy and a thriving artistic lifestyle. Meanwhile, the winning logo is expected to showcase Shenzhen’s openness, diversity and spirit of innovation through simple, grand and easily recognizable elements.

Submissions will be evaluated not only on artistic merit but also on how well the design embodies the rich historical legacy and vibrant future of this iconic place.

Important dates

Deadline for design submission: Midnight Aug. 4 (Beijing Time) — based on the arrival time of submission emails

Reviews and public appraisal period: Aug. 5-22

Prizes

The competition offers five levels of cash awards along with certificates.

1 gold prize: 30,000 yuan cash. The winning logo will be introduced as the official logo of Nantou Ancient City.

4 silver prizes: 15,000 yuan each

8 bronze prizes: 8,000 yuan each

12 merit prizes: 5,000 yuan each

Up to 15 creative prizes designated by the organizing committee: 3,000 yuan each

Please note that all cash prizes are before tax and subject to applicable personal income tax.

Submission

Please email your submissions to ntgc_logo@sina.com.

About Nantou Ancient City

Dating back to 331 A.D. during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420), Nantou Ancient City was the administration center of Dongguan Prefecture, and served as a vital hub for maritime defense, sea traffic and international trade in the Lingnan coastal area, standing as a symbol of rich history and cultural significance.

Following six-year renovation that started in 2019, Nantou Ancient City has transformed into a vibrant new cultural landmark in the Greater Bay Area. It is now seeking a unique logo that will become its cultural IP.

(Li Jing)