Showcasing California’s natural beauty
through illustrated zoo boards
through illustrated zoo boards
One Big Family – our latest wildlife project, completed for Curiodyssey in California, brings the state’s rich natural beauty to life through two meticulously crafted illustrated boards. These boards are designed to show the importance of every species that makes up our ecosystem, and to foster a deeper connection with nature.
Newt looked up at the sky, then gazed downward, taking in all that was around her.
"Owl, she exclaimed, "I'm thankful for the plants and animals that share my home. We all do our part so there's enough food to eat, clean water to swim in, and good soil for plants to grow."
“We’re one big family,”Newt added thoughtfully.
“Yes,” said Owl.
“Everything is connected. All living things breathe the same air, drink from the same rivers, and eat fruit from the same trees.
Everyone thrives when we care for each other and the wild spaces we share.”
(Text provided by Curiodyssey)
First board: a mixed-media wildlife board
The first board is a mixed-media composition that seamlessly blends artistic illustration with photography. This board showcases a detailed portrayal of Californian woodland, featuring select native animal species –Western Pond Turtle/Pacific Pond Turtle, Burrowing Owl/shoco, Californian newt, and grey fox.
Combining hand-drawn elements with real-life photos creates a dynamic and engaging visual experience. Visitors can explore the intricate details of the woodland ecosystem, seeing how each species fits into the broader environment.
Second board: a fully illustrated wildlife board
The second board is a fully illustrated piece, bringing to life the vibrant and colourful wildlife of the region. The vivid illustrations make the board visually appealing and engaging for visitors of all ages.
These illustrated boards are more than just engaging and informative displays; they are works of art that celebrate California’s wildlife and our life on Earth. By combining detailed illustrations with photography, we have created educational tools that are both engaging and visually stunning. This project is a testament to the power of visual storytelling in wildlife education, enhancing the visitor experience at the zoo and promoting conservation awareness.
Watch the video to get an inside look at how these intricate designs come together, from the initial sketch to completion:
