Afrosport is a new book by Peet Pienaar that explores the visual culture of African sports. Here, the designer selects five football logos from the book and explains their role in celebrating unity and independence.
Unveiled alongside the 34th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) football tournament, which is currently underway in Ivory Coast, Afrosport was created by Piennar and his surf brand Mami Wata Surf.
The book explores the history of African sport and its influence on the world through the lens of design.
It features a mix of graphics and photography alongside in-depth analysis, including a foreword by former NBA professional basketball player Joakim Noah and an exclusive interview with Ivorian footballer Didier Drogba.
Interspersing the book are entire pages dedicated to the logos of different football clubs from across the continent, which according to Pienaar serve as narratives of cultural heritage and collective identity. Afrosport (above) explores football logos including that of the Kaizer Chiefs (top image)
"Most African national football logos were created after colonial independence when football played a key role in nation-building," he said.
"Although football was a colonial influence, changing logos and colours were important to show change and rally people behind a newly independent nation."
These historical influences still persist in logos to this day, according to Piennar.
"Even with neoliberalism, the rise of the ...