The two creative minds behind the instantly recognisable Archie brand identity, illustrator Clare Mackie and brand designer Neil Haston, have been announced as new patrons of The Archie Foundation.
Mearns-born Clare, an internationally acclaimed artist, and Neil, who runs Haston Creative agency, were delighted to accept the invitation to become patrons in recognition of their involvement with Archie since its inception 21 years ago.
Clare and Neil teamed up back in 2000 to create the lovable character and introduce the young Archie brand to the world.
Their partnership was rekindled recently to bring together The Archie Foundation and its family of funds – Friends of the Neonatal Unit and Grampian Child Bereavement Network (GCBN) – under a new, unifying brand identity, where a grown-up Archie is cuddling baby Neo in his arms and holding the GCBN kite.
Brighton-based Clare carved out a successful 30-year career, including 20 years in London, and can count many international brands in her impressive client list. She has also illustrated over 20 books. She said: “I cannot believe 21 years have passed since Archie was born. Time has flown and The Archie Foundation has made a big difference to so many lives in that time.
“I’m so genuinely honoured to have been a part of it and it’s been a joy to collaborate with Neil Haston again to create the new logo. I am absolutely delighted to become a patron. May Archie go from strength to strength, and I’ll continue to lend my support whenever needed.”
Neil’s creative marketing expertise spans decades and he has worked on many blue-chip accounts, in London, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Neil has created memorable work, at home and abroad, for clients across multiple industry and charitable sectors.
He said: “I’m delighted to have been involved in the recent brand development of Archie and very proud to have been asked to become a patron of this amazing charity, with which I have been involved since its inception 21 years ago. The team at Archie do such worthwhile work to help make a difference to children and families when they need it most. I’m honoured to continue to support their work.”
Archie’s CEO Paula Cormack said: “We couldn’t be prouder to announce that Clare and Neil have accepted our invitation to become patrons. They have been associated with Archie since the very start and we have been so fortunate to again benefit from their support and expertise through the 21st Anniversary rebranding.
“We are so grateful for Clare and Neil’s ongoing support of Archie and know that they will bring a magnificent mix of expertise and enthusiasm to their new roles.”