Yale University character drawing project - Handsome Dan
Client: Yale University
Commissioner: John Gambell
Ongoing brand character drawing project for Yale University since 2019. Ink line drawings of the university’s living mascot character, bulldog Handsome Dan.
The drawings were used to support Yale University’s brand both internally and externally. Specifically, the assets were printed for posters, flags, banners, and merchandise gift items. Additionally, they were used digitally for the newsletter and the university’s video opening credit, along with the Yale logotype.
About the project
Handsome Dan, Yale University’s beloved bulldog mascot, has proudly represented the institution for over 130 years, spanning 19 generations.
Since 2019, I’ve had the honor of being commissioned by Yale to illustrate the most recent two generations of Handsome Dan. Over the years, I’ve created more than 30 unique drawings of him.
My illustrations have been used across the university in meaningful ways — from banners welcoming new students to commemorative gifts for graduates. For instance, during the Covid-19 lockdown, Dan even appeared on posters promoting health safety measures, reminding everyone to wear masks and wash their hands. Similarly, when classes moved online, Dan greeted students and faculty as part of the video opening credits.
As a result of this growing recognition, more university departments and teams requested custom artwork. I collaborated with multiple design teams within Yale and had the privilege of partnering with the animation studio Imaginary Forces to create a vibrant video opening credit for the university.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is hearing from the client that students, faculty, and staff see Dan’s cheerful image all over campus. In fact, these drawings brighten their days, and that’s the true purpose of illustration — to capture positive attention and lift spirits. After all, Handsome Dan is just too adorable to ignore!
