Features

When the School of Visual Arts set out to choose its first mascot, the community flocked to the idea of a pigeon—a bird that’s scrappy, resourceful, and, therefore, perfectly symbolic of New York City. Savvy’s origin dates to 2018, when SVA Student Affairs used cartoon-like pigeon illustrations throughout their new-student orientation materials. The birds are synonymous with urban life, says Bill Martino, associate executive director of Student Affairs, and the motif became an annual tradition, decorating not just orientation materials but SVA-branded swag like T-shirts and hats. Two years ago, the Visual Arts Students Association, the College’s student government, proposed a pigeon mascot to the SVA administration as part of VASA’s ongoing effort to build and strengthen a unified school identity and sense of community across all undergraduate and graduate programs. With President David Rhodes’s approval, a student-led contest to create the mascot began. Last spring, students were invited to choose among three finalists’ designs. The winning look, by James Aquilone (BFA Comics), features SVA’s signature blue and red colors, an apple-like artist’s beret (a wink to New York’s “Big Apple” nickname), and high-top sneakers.

To celebrate his debut, we paired Aquilone with Savvy for a playful Q&A about pigeons, design choices, community reaction, and maybe even a jaunt off campus.

James, what do you think of the choice of New York’s unofficial bird of the people as the face of SVA? And Savvy, what kind of pigeon are you?

James: There had been talk of using a pigeon as SVA’s mascot for years, and the Visual Arts Students Association (VASA) opened a contest for students to submit pitches. I agree with their choice—pigeons represent New York: plucky, adaptable, and everywhere.

Savvy: I’m definitely more of the bagel-crumbs-and-subway kind of pigeon. The hustle and bustle feels like home to me—and so does the taste of a good bagel.

James, as a BFA Comics student, how did your storytelling instincts influence Savvy’s design?

James: An essential part of designing a character is knowing what they’re about as soon as you look at them. Savvy needed to read as a cute, friendly little artist, so he has a classic beret, big sneakers to feel down-to-earth and active, and expressive eyes to seem approachable.

Speaking of stories, Savvy, what’s the most epic tale you’ve lived through on the streets of NYC?

Savvy: This is a little embarrassing, but I nearly missed Accepted Students Day once—missed the bus, got lost, and was too short for anyone to notice me. A few friendly pigeons gave me directions, but I had to fly there. My wings were so tired I thought they’d fall off, but I made it in time!

James, what was the very first sketch of Savvy like, and how did he evolve into the character we see now?

James: Savvy used to be smaller and plumper. His feathers had more patterns, including a heart on his chest and SVA’s flower logo on his tail, and he didn’t have shoes. We made his neck longer so he looked more like a pigeon than a bluebird. Simplifying the design made him more recognizable while keeping the character.

Savvy: I’ll always be nostalgic for my old look, but what would I do without my sneakers? They’re a signature.

James, how does it feel knowing a character you created represents the entire SVA community?

James: While it’s an honor, it can be overwhelming. Representing the whole community in one bird is tough, and I worried he wouldn’t connect. I’m flattered by the reception—he seems well-liked.

Savvy: I try to play it cool, but it can be stressful. Everyone has been supportive, making me feel like SVA is where I belong.

James, what advice would you give to other students who dream of creating a mascot or character that lives beyond the page?

James: Take opportunities when they come, and be flexible. Savvy wasn’t made in a day, and I didn’t make him alone. At least a dozen people gave feedback and pushed me to improve him. Entering the contest changed everything. Keep pushing yourself; you won’t believe what you’re capable of.

Savvy: I’ll keep improving too—especially my dancing skills. With enough practice, I can take on anybody. Watch out, Times Square! Time to spread my wings!

Follow Savvy on Instagram at @savvy_sva and keep an eye out—you might just spot him strutting about, bringing school spirit to SVA’s campus.