The Kolel Logo
The Kolel logo portrays the two wooden 'atzei hayim' of the Torah scroll along with silhouettes of three faces. The numerous faces reflect that there are multiple facets (or 'faces') to Torah. At Kolel, more than one interpretation in the text is valued.
The use of a Torah image was chosen over a book, since Kolel studies sacred texts. While a book denotes study, it is not as identifiably Jewish as a Torah. In addition, the design provides a subtle link to Kolel’s first logo which included a partial Torah scroll.
The use of both positive and negative space (colour/white) further alludes to the midrash that the Torah is written in black fire on white fire. A mystical tradition suggests that the white spaces themselves are in fact part of Torah. As an example, if you examine closely how the letter 'pey' is written in the Torah (shown here), you can see the letter 'beit' formed in the white space. In other words, there is no wasted space. The design therefore suggests that the human interaction and community formed around the text is also part of Torah. The Torah, in essence, is created through the exchange between teacher and student and between students.
The Hebrew word Kolel is written in the Koren font. The Koren font was especially created for a critical edition of the Bible and was based on ancient letters. It is well known as a particularly attractive and legible classical Hebrew typeface.
Together, the image and the fonts convey the idea that Kolel is a centre engaged in the study of sacred texts through interpersonal exchange. The design is contemporary, vibrant and Jewish.
