Summer Solstice Marked by Takashi Murakami Google Doodle

Posted on Jun 21 2011 - 12:50pm by Richard Sharp

Google users will log on today to discover a psychedelic Google Doodle designed to mark the Summer Solstice. The Doodle has been designed by Takashi Murakami, a Japanese artist known for his use of two dimensional graphics and vibrant colours.

The Summer Solstice Google Doodle is created in a Japanese anime style, with flowers and a large swirling sun taking the place of the second ‘o’ in the logo. Murakami has created a variety of artworks in the past, ranging from 30 foot sculptures to his ‘super flat’ paintings similar to today’s Doodle.

The Doodle is entitled ‘The first day of summer’, which although not strictly true is probably more artistic license rather than a mistake. The Telegraph and Guardian seemed to take this to heart a little because today is better known as the longest day of summer.

The Summer Solstice takes place during the 21st June each year, once the Earth’s axis is most inclined toward to the sun. This creates the longest amount of daylight hours in the northern hemisphere, likewise the shortest day in the southern hemisphere (which takes place on 21st December in the UK).

This is the second Google doodle the UK has seen over the past few days, the search giant placed a simple name badge styled logo on their homepage to celebrate Father’s Day last Sunday.

What do you think of today’s Summer Solstice inspired Google Doodle?

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