This press kit is designed to support media professionals, research partners, funders, and collaborators in accurately representing SMU DataArts across communications. Here, you’ll find high-resolution logos and imagery, boilerplate language tailored for a variety of partnership announcements, and guidance on co-branded promotion. We also provide tips for citing our reports, referencing us on social media, and aligning with our visual identity.
For additional questions, please contact the communications team.
SMU DataArts logo assets and brief guidelines on proper usage:
Please do not use the logo with any publication or event not sanctioned by SMU DataArts. Use of the logo for events or initiatives co-sponsored by SMU DataArts and outside organizations requires the permission of the communications team.
Download official logos from Box.
To protect the integrity of the logo and registered trademark, please maintain at least one-half of the “M” height as clear space around the logo. Place the logo on solid or uncomplicated backgrounds so that it stands out.

High-resolution images and guidelines for editorial and promotional use:
A limited selection of SMU DataArts and University photos is available. Terms and conditions for use apply. Please see crediting and alt text requirements before use.
Download official images and credit information from Box.
Imagery is intended for:
For specific image needs, please contact the communications team.
All images supplied by SMU DataArts require crediting. Crediting and alt text information can be found in Box. In some cases, crediting and alt text may be condensed further to meet character limitations. Please be sure that alt text maintains a natural and accurate description.
What is alt text?
Alt text (or alternative text) is a brief description of an image that is displayed if the image cannot be loaded or is read aloud by screen readers for people with visual impairments. It helps improve website accessibility by providing a textual representation of the image's content and purpose.
Southern Methodist University owns the permissions to all photos provided. Permission to use any of these assets is granted for official University communications or personal use only. Use of SMU’s photos without permission is strictly prohibited. No individual, regardless of his affiliation with the University, may use any University imagery in any manner that suggests or implies University support or endorsement of a point of view, personal or political opinion, business activity, or movement.
Details on how to credit SMU DataArts when referencing our work on social media, in graphics, or co-branded efforts:
When referencing SMU DataArts on social media or in infographics, please credit our organization clearly and visibly. Proper attribution helps ensure the integrity of our data and makes it easier for others to find the source.
Social Links:
Always include attribution such as:
“Source: SMU DataArts (Year)” or “Data courtesy of SMU DataArts”
We often partner with organizations to co-create branded materials, such as social graphics, report covers, and event promotions that reflect a shared voice and visual identity.
If you are working with us on a joint project or wish to align on promotional materials, we’re happy to coordinate on branding, messaging, and design assets.
Please contact the communications team to discuss file formats, brand guidelines, and/or rollout support.
For partners and media seeking more detail, the following guidelines may be helpful:
SMU DataArts follows AP style for its communications, with some exceptions. For academic and research purposes, APA style is commonly used. Below are examples of how to cite our reports:
Without a Named Author:
SMU DataArts. (Year). Report Title. https://culturaldata.org/report-url
With Multiple Named Authors:
Last Name, First Initial., Last Name, First Initial., & Last Name, First Initial. (Year). Report Title. SMU DataArts. https://culturaldata.org/report-url
Note: Replace “Last Name, First Initial” with the actual author’s name, and “Report Title” and “Year” with the specific report title and publication year.
Our core brand colors include:
Full brand palette is available upon request.