“Never before have we been able to encompass so much in such a small space. To design an image that’s 32mm x 32mm is like painting the Mona Lisa on the head of a pin. Circle has been able to do this, not once, but twice.”
Tim McGurrin
Canada Post Spokesman
Promoting the Games
Canada Post commissioned Circle to design four stamps commemorating the Xlll Pan American Games (held in Winnipeg from 22 July to 8 August 1999, involving more than 5000 athletes from 42 countries) and to develop collateral promotional materials such as this poster. Each of the four stamps depicts three sports scenarios—a central, dynamic action scene framed by two background images in the corners. Stamp illustrations are by Winnipeg painter Andrew Valko.
“The designers set out to portray the remarkable diversity, multiplicity, and energy of the Games. By employing a vibrant palette of colours, and through careful blending of foreground and background elements, the stamps achieve a visual vibrancy and depth befitting this significant sporting and cultural event.” (from article in Details magazine)
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