Locos Icon Design: The Original Emoji Language
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Locos Icon Design: The Original Emoji Language
Before emojis became a universal form of digital communication, there was Locos; a pictorial language developed in 1964 by Japanese designer Yukio Ota. Intended to bridge communication gaps for the deaf, mute, and illiterate, Locos aimed to emphasize the importance of global understanding and connection.
The system comprises eight primary symbols:
Circle: Represents "Sun" or "Day"
Ring: Symbolizes "Man"
Triangle with a slightly cut-off top: Denotes "Thought"
Heart: Indicates "Feeling"
By combining these symbols in various configurations, users can convey approximately 80 official words. For instance, placing a dot inside a circle signifies "today." This innovative approach to visual language laid the groundwork for the development of modern-day emojis.
As a graphic designer and illustrator, I find the simplicity and functionality of Locos particularly inspiring. Its clean lines and intuitive design resonate with my own aesthetic, which draws heavily from Japanese influences.
Originally published in 2018, updated in 2025