The generic vignette features the well-known prelude of Charpentier's Te Deum, well-known across Europe as the introduction to a variety of programmes broadcast through the European Broadcasting Union's Eurovision Network. The vignette is meant to be used for several years, like the generic logo, and does not replace the annual theme art, designed by the Host Broadcaster. The artwork for the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest will be revealed in January.
While during those broadcasts, such as the Eurovision Song Contest Semi-Finals and Final, the traditional EBU logo will continue to feature, the EBU at the same time wants to encourage broadcasters that participate in the Eurovision Song Contest to make the heart logo with the flag part of the national selection programmes. The EBU aims to grow the recognition of the heart logo, which was introduced in 2004, and to promote the international name of the event. Traditionally, the Eurovision Song Contest is known under different names in some languages.
The governing body of the Eurovision Song Contest, the Reference Group, decided to make usage of the vignette optional in 2011. After evaluation of the impact, the group aims to make usage of the vignette to introduce national selection programmes mandatory as from 2012. Several broadcasters have already committed to using the vignette in the lead up to the 2011 contest.
The vignette was designed by the renowned German motion graphics designer Sascha Verwiebe, who won a pan-European pitch which included five companies. Verwiebe has worked for German broadcaster ZDF, Danish TV2, Deutsche Bahn, and Microsoft, amongst others. The designer was inspired by musical elements, as well as the colours of the flags of all participating countries and even made a kind reference to the so-called starburst logo, which has been used to introduce the Eurovision Song Contest until the mid-nineties.
In the upcoming weeks, the vignettes will be distributed to all participating broadcasters in the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest.
Note that the vignette may only be used by the EBU, its Members and partners in relation to the Eurovision Song Contest.
