Journal of Nature Science Illustrators Vol. 52, No. 2: Abstracts
Welcome to the second edition of 2020!
This issue highlights how scientific illustrators have adapted their approaches to effectively convey critical information during the COVID-19 pandemic. A team at the University of Chicago's Ci3 created an educational animation about COVID-19 for young people. Illustrator Chuck Carter transitioned to biology illustration, using his skills to create striking depictions of the virus that blend traditional and digital techniques. Jennifer E. Fairman showcased the role of medical illustrators in combating misinformation through visual storytelling. Emily Adams applied her graphic design expertise to produce COVID-19-related graphics for early childhood professionals. Bruce Worden adapted his workflow to focus on pharmacological pathways during the pandemic. Scott Rawlins shared his solace in activities like quarantine cooking and gardening to combat feelings of isolation. Finally, the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators successfully hosted its first virtual conference, demonstrating resilience and creativity in fostering a global community of visual creatives during challenging times.
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Presidentsʼ Note
—Kalliopi Monoyios, President and Sara Taliaferro, Past-President
The pandemic has underscored the critical importance of clear science communication, and this edition of the JNSI showcases how visual creatives are aiding public health efforts and data collection during this time. The Guild of Natural Science Illustrators adapted by hosting a successful virtual conference in August 2020, attracting 266 attendees from 14 countries. Encouraged by positive feedback, the Guild plans to explore more virtual events and invites members to contribute ideas.
Animated Discussion: How to Evolve Scientific Communication
—by Quinn Burrell
Amidst the evolving landscape of multiple crises, a team at the University of Chicago's Ci3 embarked on creating an educational animation about COVID-19 for young people. They encountered challenges in staying current with rapidly changing information and addressing additional societal issues like racial disparities. Despite the hurdles, they adapted their approach, involving youth feedback and adjusting the animation to reflect ongoing events. The project underscored the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and proactive pre-production strategies in navigating dynamic scientific communication landscapes.
Virus Gallery
— Chuck Carter
Chuck Carter, a seasoned illustrator, transitioned from editorial newspaper art to video gaming, including the iconic MYST®. Amidst the COVID-19 lockdowns, he ventured into biology illustration, crafting striking images of the virus. Using a blend of traditional and digital tools, he created editorial illustrations that not only depict the virus but also convey societal commentary. Now, he aims to balance his portfolio with both editorial and scientific work while exploring immersive storytelling possibilities in gaming technology.
Science vs. Virus: Illustrating SARS-CoV-2
— Jennifer E. Fairman
Amidst the chaos of 9/11, a medical illustrator grapples with the sudden insignificance of their profession, but emerges with a newfound sense of purpose. Fast forward to the COVID-19 pandemic, where the global medical illustration community unites to combat misinformation and aid in public understanding, highlighting the crucial role of science communication through art. From collaborating on informative resources to creating engaging visuals, their efforts demonstrate the power of visual storytelling in navigating a world in crisis.
Coronavirus Visualizations for Early Childhood Professionals
— Emily M. Adams
Emily Adams, a graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Biological/Pre-Medical Illustration, leveraged her background in graphic and web design to produce informative graphics for the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. Initially focusing on topics like heatstroke awareness and Halloween safety, she later shifted her attention to creating COVID-19-related graphics, which were utilized in an online course and shared widely. Additionally, Emily collaborated on developing a National Dashboard tracking COVID-19 childcare status and continues to contribute to the Institute's efforts, producing over 100 informational graphics in the past year.
Pandemic Works in Progress
— Edited by Cheryl Wendling
Bruce Worden serves as the Scientific Illustrator at the Journal of Clinical Investigation, residing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Despite the pandemic's impact on his workflow, he has adapted to creating COVID-19-related figures primarily focused on pharmacological pathways, including maps and graphs, rather than intricate morphological drawings. His usual work process involves collaboration with scientists and editors through email, with minor changes due to delays in author responses caused by lab closures during the pandemic.
Corona Cuisine (open access)
— W. Scott Rawlins
Amidst the challenges of limited work opportunities and restricted access to usual workspaces, many illustrators are finding solace and creativity in activities like quarantine cooking and gardening. These pursuits not only provide tangible results but also serve as a means to combat feelings of depression, anxiety, and stir-craziness during quarantine. Through experimentation with ingredients and recipes, individuals are able to exercise their creativity, feel more independent, and make productive use of their time while adjusting to the new realities of daily life.
Conference Review GNSI's First Virtual Conference
— Kalliopi Monoyios, GNSI President
Facing the challenge of hosting a conference amidst a pandemic, the GNSI President navigated the uncertainty with resilience and creativity. They transitioned the in-person event to a virtual format, focusing on themes like Creativity in the Time of COVID and Adaptive Practices for Visual Creatives. Despite initial reservations, the virtual conference exceeded expectations, drawing a global audience and fostering a sense of community while paving the way for future online endeavors in science illustration and communication.
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