Behind the HYPE: The Surprising Beginnings of the Smiley Face Design

The smiley face is considered to be one of the most universal symbols. Defined by its unmissable features -- a perfect circular form, vivid yellow color, oval eyes and an upturned semi-circular mouth -- this simple image has grown to become a largely accepted representation of happiness. It has also influenced popular culture, appearing in Alan Moore's 1986 superhero graphic novel Watchmen to being a focal point of designer Cynthia Lu's contemporary label, Cactus Plant Flea Market. While the ori...