The Art and Science of Medal Design

Introduction

Medals are more than just pieces of metal: they are symbols of achievement, recognition, and excellence. Designing a medal requires balancing aesthetic appeal, clarity of symbolism, and functional durability.

When I first approached medal design, I realized the task involved both art and strategy. Every detail, from size and shape to texture and color, communicates meaning.

Context of My Medal Design

I submitted my design for the Lausanne 2020 Youth Olympic Games Medal Design Competition (lausanne.medal-design-competition.com).

The theme was “Celebrating the Spirit of the Winter Olympic Games.” I aimed to capture athletic excellence, winter beauty, and global unity in a single piece.

Out of 200–300 entries worldwide, my design was one of only 9 submissions from India. This made the experience especially meaningful and memorable.

Conceptualization

The design process starts with understanding the purpose:

• Event or Competition: Tailoring design elements to the theme or sport.
• Symbolism: Incorporating meaningful icons, motifs, or text.
• Recipient Experience: Ensuring the medal feels valuable and memorable.

Sketching multiple concepts is essential. Often, the first few ideas are exploratory; refinement emerges through iteration and feedback.

Design Elements

1. Shape and Form: Circular, hexagonal, or custom silhouettes can convey different moods.
2. Relief and Texture: Embossed or engraved details add depth and tactility.
3. Material and Finish: Choice of metal, plating, or patina affects both aesthetics and perception of value.
4. Color Accents: Enamel, paint, or other materials highlight key design features.
5. Typography: Clear, readable text reinforces the medal’s significance.

Iteration and Prototyping

• Creating digital mockups allows testing proportions, spacing, and visual hierarchy.
• 3D models or clay prototypes help visualize how the medal will feel in hand.
• Feedback from event organizers or potential recipients can uncover overlooked improvements.

Key Takeaways

• A successful medal design balances elegance, clarity, and symbolism.
• Attention to small details — edge finishing, texture, engraving depth, elevates the final product.
• Iterative refinement ensures the medal is not only visually appealing but also meaningful to recipients.
• Participating in competitions provides unique opportunities to learn, grow, and share your vision with a global audience.

Conclusion

Creating this medal was a deeply rewarding experience. I hope you enjoy viewing it as much as I enjoyed designing it. Medal design is a fusion of creativity, precision, and empathy. The goal is to craft a piece that celebrates achievement, tells a story, and endures as a treasured keepsake.