Understanding Science Communication Concept Development

The Unique Research Process Needed to Illustrate Science

Ever wonder what it takes to create stunning visuals that simplify the most complex scientific concepts? Why not ask our experts, Nicolle Fuller, Founder of SayoStudio, and Art Director Claire Agosti. Learn about the research, thought, and creativity that’s part of SayoStudio’s concept development when creating science visuals in their podcast, and read on to discover how they transform research into visual stories.

Where the Graphic Magic Begins: Researching the Science

At SayoStudio, research isn’t just a step in the science visualization process—it’s the foundation. Nicolle and Claire make it clear: you can’t just jump into creating illustrations without doing your homework. They spend an average of 12 hours per project, diving deep into the science behind the visuals. From brushing up on foundational knowledge to staying on top of cutting-edge developments, they take their time to fully understand the subject matter.

And the range of topics? It’s massive! SayoStudio tackles everything from astronomy to cancer therapies, keeping their work both challenging and exhilarating. For each project visualizing science, Nicolle and Claire refresh old knowledge and work to ensure they’re up to date on current research. Every project is like solving a puzzle—except this one requires scientific journal articles and a healthy dose of creative skill.

Blending Art and Creativity to Communicate Science

When it comes to creating captivating science illustrations, you can’t just slap on some pretty colors and call it a day. It’s about finding the perfect harmony between scientific accuracy and artistic expression. In addition to researching the science, Claire and Nicolle scour existing art–both technical science illustrations and abstract images from the art world–taking inspiration while adding their unique SayoStudio twist to keep things visually engaging.

Microscopic processes? Advanced technologies? No problem. Whether it’s creating new images for things we can’t photograph or finding clever ways to represent complex movements, Nicolle and Claire make it look easy (even though it’s definitely not).

The Art of Metaphors:
When Science Gets Symbolic

If you’ve ever heard of the lock-and-key metaphor in biology, you’re already familiar with how metaphors can explain complex topics. SayoStudio aims to push the usual metaphor depictions like puzzle pieces in fresh new directions that enhance understanding. Reimagining tired metaphors to give them new life helps viewers connect with the science in a more meaningful way.

A favorite example of effectively using a metaphor to create unique art was a tripwire metaphor to depict an HIV protein. It represented a unique aspect of HIV that makes it so dangerous to our immune system.

Simplifying the Complex: A Cooperative Process

Breaking down complex scientific concepts into digestible illustrations is no small feat. It is an iterative process to refine visuals—sometimes simplifying things too much strips away key details, while too much information can overwhelm the audience.

That’s where collaboration with researchers comes in. By sharing their ideas through sketches and detailed questions, SayoStudio works closely with their scientist clients to ensure that each illustration not only looks fantastic, but also clearly represents the science. Feedback from researchers and clients helps them tweak and perfect the artwork to ensure the science is both engaging and accurate.

What’s Next for SayoStudio’s Science Communication Podcast?

We’re so excited for what’s to come and we encourage our viewers to subscribe to our channel and follow us on social media to keep up with our updates! We’d love to hear your thoughts on science communication, so please share your thoughts on our channel! The world of science communication is constantly evolving, and we at SayoStudio are thrilled to be part of that change. Keep in touch to learn about how we use science art to inform, inspire, and ignite curiosity.

Stay tuned—there’s much more to come!