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Egor ZhgunDesigner |
Content:
- The Origins of Collaboration
- The Viral Success of Zoych
- Unorthodox Approach
- Registration of Rights and Public Reaction
- Ambiguous Attitude towards Official Mascots
- Positive Outlook on Collaboration
A Tale of Collaboration and Controversy: The Story of Yegor Zhgun and the "Zoych" Olympic Mascot
On June 15, 2013, Dmitry Chernyshenko, head of the Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee, revealed that the "Zoych" mascot, an unofficial symbol of the Olympics, was created at the behest of officials to attract attention to the selection of official mascots. The revelation was necessary after it became known that the committee had registered the rights to Zoych.
The Origins of Collaboration
Yegor Zhgun, the designer of Zoych, explained in an interview with "Lenta.Ru" that he was approached by the Organizing Committee at the start of the mascot design competition, held on the website talisman.sochi2014. They proposed that he participate, assuring him that there would be no alterations to his design from their side.
The Viral Success of Zoych
Zhgun embraced the idea, seeing it as an unorthodox approach by officials who sought to create a "virus" within the online community. The Organizing Committee retained the rights to the mascot but otherwise had no influence on its design. Zhgun's only concern was whether they might object to specific elements, but to his surprise, they approved the final product without alterations.
Unorthodox Approach
Zhgun recognized that the collaboration with the Organizing Committee was a non-traditional approach. However, he maintained that he did not compromise his artistic integrity by participating in the main competition and creating a unique and memorable symbol.
Registration of Rights and Public Reaction
Zhgun's revelation of the collaboration was met with mixed reactions. Some praised the innovative approach, while others condemned the involvement of the Organizing Committee. Zhgun defended his decision, explaining that he preferred to speak the truth rather than face accusations of dishonesty.
Ambiguous Attitude towards Official Mascots
Despite his positive experience with the Organizing Committee, Zhgun remained critical of the chosen official mascots. He saw Zoych as a superior creation in terms of execution and concept.
Positive Outlook on Collaboration
Overall, Zhgun expressed a positive view of his collaboration with the Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee. He believed that the Zoych episode showcased the potential for innovation and non-standard thinking in Russian online culture, despite the controversy it generated.
