In early 2011, National Geographic approached KMIP to create a set of miniature information graphics for sprinkling throughout the magazine. While the magazine was in the process of rethinking their Departments section, they reached out to our design team for ideas on how to provide readers with more interesting entry points on a page. The playing field was wide open, with possible topics ranging from fossils and biodiversity to energy use and conservation. What set this particular project apart was that in addition to creating the illustrations, we were also charged with coming up with the facts and concepts for these bite-sized graphics.

There were infinite possibilities – and in order to make them effective – we aimed towards creating a simple visual system that could convey a potentially complex nugget of information in a simple and catchy way on the margins of the page. After extensive research into animal lifespans, electric power consumption, and bizarre weather phenomenons, we submitted 50+ ideas from which the National Geographic team selected a favorite handful for development and design.

Thus far, three of our illustrations have appeared in print in recent months, with more to come.

• Art Direction + Design
• Illustration