10. Arizona - A stately and appropriate flag which is docked somewhat for it’s vague similarity to the Japanese rising sun flag. Thankfully, Arizona is where the sun sets.
9. Pennsylvania - An old school flag done right and well-drawn
8. Oklahoma - A hat-tip to history plus a peace pipe. Well done.
7. Alaska - For all the awful flags from the Midwest that look like the gubner’s daughter doodled them for arts & crafts, Alaska actually did let the school kids come up with the design and it turned out pretty well - subdued and appropriate.
6. Nevada - Nevada shied away from the butt-ugly drawing and decided to rock the awesome slogan “Battle Born”. The lack of an iconic graphic and the way in which history has taken Nevada in another direction docks it a few points. In retrospect, perhaps the original design was better.
5. New Mexico - Again, it just hits the spot. What better could you do with New Mexico to start with?
4. Virginia - This flag just rocks. It’s liberty stomping on a de-crowned king declaring, “Ever thus to tyrants”. My complaint is that this phrase isn’t prominent enough. But take note lame Vermont flag - you’re sitting on “Live Free or Die”. Think about it.
3. Texas - The lone star is an undeniable icon. But taken in general, it’s kind of plain.
2. California - I’m a homer. I love this flag. I’d like to get it as a sheet set.
1. Ohio - A surprising winner for sure, but the sleek shape, great aesthetic, subtle O, and vague resemblance to an Ohio State Buckeye helmet make this the best in show.
1 comment:
Great blog. I still have to go with the simple nature icons as the best flags. That would be New Mexico, Alaska, and Arizona. Drawing farmers or writing platitudes causes the flag to lose meaning after just a few generations. A good flag should represent the place and remain timeless. A nature icon provides a connection with the place and reminds us to be good stewards of that place. New Mexico went beyond all expectations. The symbol of the sun of the Zia people on a background of Spanish colors is simple, represents the natural environment of New Mexico, and even incorporates its history. Kudos to the New Mexicans.
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