Blue Sky Studios, an iconic American computer animation film studio, was founded in 1987 by Christopher Wedge and a group of former MAGI employees. Known for its innovative animation style, the studio became a subsidiary of 20th Century Animation in 1997. Throughout its journey, Blue Sky Studios produced notable works like the Ice Age series, Rio, and Ferdinand, earning its place among animation giants like Pixar and DreamWorks.

Visual Identity Through the Years

Blue Sky Studios’ logos have undergone three significant changes since its inception. Each version reflects the studio’s creative essence and growth trajectory.

1987–2005: The Original Vision
The debut logo encapsulated the theme of the "sky" with a freeform blue stroke resembling a soft, airy cloud. The artistic stroke symbolized the creativity and innovation of the studio’s artists. The wordmark, rendered in gray letters on a white background (or white letters on black for alternate versions), paired simplicity with artistic flair, reflecting the studio’s formative years.

2005–2013: A Refined Look
The next iteration featured a sleeker design. The cloud stroke was replaced with an elegant blue ellipse, showcasing a muted and sophisticated palette. The updated serif typeface introduced playful variations, with uneven strokes in the letters “u” and “y,” adding dynamism to the design. This version exuded a polished and professional vibe while retaining a hint of whimsy. Versions with additional decorative strokes appeared in select films like Horton Hears a Who.

2013–Present: Creative Energy
The current logo is a celebration of creativity and motion. The letters in "Blue Sky" appear to "dance," symbolizing the studio’s dynamic nature and boundless imagination. The wordmark is vibrant and fluid, with the words placed closer together and distinguished by color. For the first time, the word “Studios” was introduced below the main logo in a minimalistic font. This design premiered with the film Epic and has become a symbol of the studio's enduring legacy.

The End of an Era

In 2019, Disney acquired Blue Sky Studios. Despite its illustrious history and groundbreaking contributions to animation, the studio faced closure in April 2021, citing pandemic-related challenges. Blue Sky’s final production, Camouflage and Espionage, marked the end of a remarkable chapter in animation history.

Blue Sky Studios will forever be remembered for its creativity, innovation, and the joy it brought to audiences worldwide. Its legacy continues to inspire the animation industry and beyond.