As a graphic designer at the Zoological Society of Milwaukee (ZSM), I contributed to a wide range of projects, both print and digital, aimed at promoting events, enhancing signage across the zoo, supporting educational and conservation initiatives, and driving fundraising efforts for the Milwaukee County Zoo. I collaborated closely with diverse clients, worked directly with print vendors, and ensured seamless project execution from concept to completion. My responsibilities included using large-format printers and various materials to create and maintain signage throughout the zoo, keeping information current while aligning with evolving graphic trends. Notable projects I led include designs for Zoo Camp shirts and wall graphics, entrance banners, materials for the "Sponsor an Animal" campaign, and concepts for the annual Zoo Ball event.
I worked on numerous shirt designs, including Zoo Camp, a program that provides enriching educational experiences for children throughout the summer. For the theme of birds, I chose to highlight one of the zoo's most striking residents: the rhinoceros hornbill. I developed a range of design options, collaborating closely with the client to refine and perfect the final concept.
The Education Department requested a large wall graphic for Zoo Camp that would allow kids to measure and compare their height with that of various animals. I designed the graphic using Illustrator, then printed it on adhesive vinyl with a large-format printer for easy wall installation. While this was a substantial project with its challenges, I successfully created and installed the graphic by carefully measuring the space and collaborating with the client to determine the best solution for the installation.
One of the standout projects I worked on was the design of the entrance and exit road banners. I ensured that the banners aligned seamlessly with the current "Species of Fun" campaign, featuring a vibrant array of animals from the zoo to build excitement and anticipation for guests as they arrive. Throughout the process, I collaborated closely with both the print vendor and the client to select the highest-quality materials and printing options, ensuring the banners would be durable and visually striking. I also developed multiple mockups to help the client clearly visualize the final design, ensuring the end result met their expectations.
One of the recurring projects I worked on involved creating promotional materials for the "Sponsor an Animal" campaign, where ZSM offers exclusive packages that include a limited-edition plush toy and an informative factsheet for children supporting the program. My goal was to ensure a cohesive and consistent visual identity across all materials, including the factsheets for each animal. To achieve this, I designed a template that can be used for future campaigns, maintaining a unified look for years to come.
Zoo Ball is ZSM’s largest annual fundraising event, and our team had the privilege of collaborating closely with the event co-chairs to bring Zoo Ball 2024 to life. We began the creative process by brainstorming theme and title concepts, along with mood boards to capture the vision. After gathering client feedback, we refined their chosen ideas into invitation designs, teaser materials, and RSVP mockups. My title concept was selected, and my overall design approach, which centered around an "Elegant Expedition" theme, was a top contender. The design featured a whimsical safari scene and highlighted an immersive train experience, perfectly blending elegance with adventure.
