Mezzotint

Although one might assume this is purely an offshoot of a computer function, many of these designs appear to hand-rendered-even created by making a rubbing off of a textured surface. There is a definite move toward hand-craftedness, away from highly polished, strong edges to something that is corporate but human.

1. Richards Brock Miller & Associates for Blue Rino Studio 2. Dotzreo Design for The Neighborhood Daycare 3. Judson Design Associates for Harris County Water District 4. Jon Flaming Design: Objex, Inc.

Mythic

This is a trend that is similar to Animorphic, a trend from last year. Designers hearken back to mythology and legend to imbue their clients-especially brand-new companies-with an instant history. It's the ancient equivalent of celebrity endorsement.

Nike may have gotten things started, but not all such designs are successful for two reasons. First, not everyone may understand your reference, no matter how apt. Second, like celebrities today, gods and goddesses of yesterday may have skeletons in their rock-hewn closets that may lend less that appropriate light on a client.

1. thomasvasquez.com for The National Network 2. thomasvasquez.com for Starwood Hotel Group 3. VMA for Char-Broilfor Tactix Creative