Dustin Gandof
Jane Davis Doggett, a pioneer in the field of wayfinding and graphics systems for airports, passed away on April 10, 2023, at the age of 93. She was a celebrated graphic artist, and her designs helped people navigate airports across the world.
Doggett was born on November 4, 1929, in Canton, Ohio. She showed an interest in art from an early age and went on to study at the Cleveland Institute of Art, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. She continued her education at the Yale School of Art and Architecture, where she earned a Master of Fine Arts degree in graphic design.
After completing her education, Doggett began her career in New York City with the design firm of William S. Johnson Associates. In 1957, she became the first woman to work in the graphics department of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. It was there that she was tasked with designing the wayfinding system for LaGuardia Airport, which would become one of her most significant accomplishments.
In the 1960s, Doggett founded her own design firm, Jane Davis Doggett Design Associates. She continued to work with airports, creating wayfinding systems for over 50 airports worldwide, including Hong Kong International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, and Tampa International Airport.
One of Doggett’s most recognizable designs is the “Spirit of Flight” logo for Tampa International Airport. The logo features a soaring pelican, and it has become synonymous with the airport for the past 30 years.
Doggett received numerous awards and recognitions for her work. In 2019, she was inducted into the International Air Transport Association’s Hall of Fame for her contributions to aviation design.
Doggett’s impact on the world of graphic design and wayfinding systems for airports has been immeasurable. Her designs have made traveling more accessible for millions of people across the world. Her legacy will live on through her designs and the countless people who were helped by them.
