Designing the commemorative coins for Team GB and ParalympicsGB 2024
When I was invited to participate in the Royal Mint’s contest to design the official coin for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Despite having had the privilege to design for numerous Olympiads and national teams like team USA or Slovenia and companies like Yahoo! or Gatorade, this project felt uniquely significant. The chance to meld my Greek heritage, steeped in Olympic history, with the vibrant spirit of Team GB was a challenge that deeply resonated with me. It was not just another project; it was a chance to create something that symbolized the connection between cultures and the universal spirit of the Olympics.
Designing for the Royal Mint presented a unique set of challenges. Crafting a design that could convey the dynamism and energy of the Olympic Games on such a minuscule canvas required a delicate balance of detail and clarity. Every pixel had to be meticulously placed to ensure that the final piece was not only visually striking but also able to withstand the rigors of coin production. The process pushed my creative boundaries and demanded a synthesis of my pixel art expertise with the practical constraints of coin minting. Translating my vision from a two-dimensional concept into a tangible, three-dimensional object was a fascinating journey, full of intricate details and careful considerations.
Working with the Royal Mint and Team GB has been an incredible honor. I am profoundly grateful to everyone involved for their trust and support throughout this project. Being a non-British designer selected for such an emblematic task speaks volumes about the openness and inclusivity of this nation. Their willingness to embrace diverse perspectives and celebrate global talent is something I deeply admire and respect. This experience has not only allowed me to leave a mark on the history of coin design but has also reaffirmed my belief in the power of creativity to bridge cultures and bring people together.
You can read more about the project here and purchase the commemorative coins here.
Many many thanks to everyone at the Royal Mint and TeamGB.