ICOM is a network of more than 34,000 museums and museum professionals that embodies the global museum community and has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. To represent this vast international community, we sought a graphic element that is understandable to everyone and compatible with all cultures.

The sign should express the strength of the institution: stable, somewhat monumental and trustworthy. It must also be "cultured", embodying intelligence and creativity. Its design expresses a desire for civility, a link that unites us: this sign calls for sympathy, it allows everyone to adhere to the project.