The Oculus is a key component of the University brand, drawn from the oculus window at the center of the Rotunda’s Dome Room.
Just as the window was designed to bring light into the Dome Room library, the Oculus represents the illumination the University lends to our own pursuits, inspiring future generations of Wahoos. In this way, it is perhaps one of the most powerful expressions of the UVA brand today.
The following examples demonstrate how you can use the Oculus in your designs.
To use the graphic elements described below, download starter files for the Oculus graphic, Gradient Oculus and Broken Burst Oculus.
Oculus as Background
The Oculus can also be used on its own without the use of text to signify radiant energy and outward motion.
Figure 1
Figure 1 shows the Oculus as a background element to add depth and texture to the white space of the page.
Figure 2
Figure 2 shows the Oculus used as a background element to add emphasis to call-out numbers and text.
Figure 3
Figure 3 shows the Oculus framing an image.
Figure 4
Figure 4 shows the Oculus as an element behind text to add visual interest and texture.
Gradient Oculus
The Gradient Oculus, originated in the Curry sub-brand, emulates the UVA Oculus pattern and captures the feeling of optimism, energy, growth and impact. To use the Gradient Oculus as shown in following figures, download the Gradient Oculus file.
Figure 1 and 2
Figures 1 and 2 show the Gradient Oculus as its own color layer that can be used as a graphic or word mask.
Figure 3 and 4
Figures 3 and 4 show the Gradient Oculus as a photo collage tool.
Incorrect Use: Gradient Oculus
NOTE: The artwork should be used as provided in the “gradientoculus.psd” file and not altered in any other way, as outlined below.
Avoid adding colors to the Gradient Oculus. It is already very saturated.
Avoid breaking apart the Oculus by rearranging the Gradient.
Word Oculus
The Word Oculus, which originated in the Data Science Institute sub-brand, constructs the UVA Oculus pattern with the use of typography and data. It is both an informational and graphic element and helps lend understanding to complexity.
Incorrect Use: Word Oculus
NOTE: The artwork should be used as shown in the figures above and not altered in any other way, as outlined below.
Avoid vertical type with letters stacked on top of each other.
Avoid changing the orientation of the words within the same Oculus.
Broken Burst Oculus
The Broken Burst Oculus, which originated in the Miller Center sub-brand, is another variation of the UVA Oculus pattern and represents enlightenment and illumination. To use the Broken Burst Oculus as shown in following figures, download the Broken Burst Oculus file.
Figure 1
Figure 1 shows how the Broken Burst Oculus can surround shapes other than a circle.
Figures 2 and 5
Figures 2 and 5 show how the Broken Burst Oculus emphasizes the text or image in its center as a focal point in whatever case it is used.
Figure 3
Figure 3 shows how the Broken Burst Oculus works like the UVA Oculus to surround and emphasize a central word or graphic.
Figure 4
Figure 4 shows how the Broken Burst Oculus can be manipulated for legibility.
Incorrect Use: Broken Burst Oculus
NOTE: The artwork should be used as shown in the "BrokenBurstOculus.ai" file and not altered in any other way, as outlined below.
Avoid thick stroke lines with squared line caps.
Avoid using more than one color in the Broken Burst Oculus.