Cincinnati’s Foodshed Infographic
R. Alan Wight, Ph.D.
The book Cincinnati’s Foodshed: An Art Atlas, shares the story of Cincinnati’s foodshed — past, present, and future. The client assigned a page spread in the “future” section of the book to feature an innovative independent business called "Fresh to Morrow," located in Morrow, Ohio. Since the farm and cafe was close by, I asked for a tour to collect visual research and an interview to gain a greater understanding of the project. The client and I met with the business owner, Ryan Doan at the farm and cafe where I gathered inspiration and learned of the sustainability initiatives and his company values. I took photographs and got approval to audiotape the discussion.
The follow-up from the visit included writing a design brief to outline the goals and set action items and deadlines for this comprehensive project.
Infographic requirements:
A timeline of business operations
Prominent space within the layout for the company's story.
A depiction of the business as an integral part of the community
The location shown as an Ohio river town with residents in this community with a passion for healthy food and lifestyles. Patrons of Fresh to Morrow are known to arrive on bicycles off the bike trail and from kayaks after boating on the river.
A secondary map showing the local and regional partners and vendors that provide locally-sourced sustainable food and products.
As part of my typical process I provided a rough sketch of the concept which was then reviewed with the client to assure it met their expectations and included all elements and ideas outlined in the brief. Next, I continued on to a more developed illustration and added color, next — there were several rounds working with the client in a positive and collaborative way. I am proud my artwork is included in this book and I greatly enjoyed the challenge that making an infographic brings. With so much on one page it is important to lead the reader on organized and creative path to understanding the information. I am interested in tacking more infographic projects and illustrated maps.
For more Information about the book project please click here.
Capabilities:
Editorial Illustration
Pictorial map-making
Page layout and graphic design
