The only reason I decided to post this, is that in my opinion, it is a pretty interesting story about how a symbol/word can have a long, interesting, and diverse history.  Design has many of these kinds of jewels of intricacy that make for interesting design, this is one of them.  Some things in design are formed from things as simple as the need to relate a simple singular relationship.  The “at” symbol does that.  Every-time you see this word, you know what it means.  It has several uses in the modern age, and now takes on a greater role in all of our lives. So when you see this symbol again, maybe you will not take it for granted, how much language/symbols affect/permeate our everyday life.  Enjoy.

Hugo Boss is asking for submissions from design fans, professionals, and students for concept ideas for its Hugo Create contest. Hugo Boss specializes in fragrance products for men and women.

The competition selects 10 winners from each contest round. One winner from the group will have their artwork published in the international urban magazine, i-D. All winners receive a $500 cash award. Other winning designs will be painted on New York building walls during the month of September.

The Hugo Create contest wants advertising poster designs that feature the HUGO Man bottle. The contest theme is “Summer Time.” Examples for this theme are favorite holiday moments, travel locations, or outdoor activities.

All visuals must be submitted electronically as RGB or JPEG files no larger than 500kb. Illustration, photography, painting, or any other medium applicable for visual design is acceptable.

The final format used to publish visuals on the Hugo Boss website is 672 pixels wide by 960 pixels high. Submissions can be in portrait or landscape orientation. If your entry is selected as a winner and is in landscape mode, you will need to turn in a version that is in portrait format.

Entries are judged on the most daring, expressive, and clever designs. Judges will be taking into consideration the uniqueness, quality, wit, and product relevance of submissions.

The deadline for this contest round is June 30, 2009. For the official contest rules, click here. For more information, the official entry form, and other contest materials, go to the official website by clicking here.