This project focused on conceptualizing a feature article opening spread that demanded attention to the recent wild fire that destroyed nearly 50,000 acres in the Columbia Gorge on September 2017 in Oregon state.

The initial approach consisted of generating a lengthy word list that allowed for a catchy headline that played off a pun—Fire At Will. Once the headline was created a set of 5 thumbnail sketches were developed which were the basis of 5 tight rough spreads all created within InDesign. From these 5, only 3 were selected as the next step and ultimately resulted in one final tight rough. Once a final piece was chosen, the typography, hierarchy and eye flow were all refined to ensure the concept was clear. Finally a 2nd page continuing spread was created, which carried design elements from the opening spread and resulted in a complete 4 page feature spread.

The project was able to successfully convey the "Fire At Will" pun by illustrating something serious yet with an approach that would capture a reader's attention. The spread was able to demand attention and relate to the wild fire in the Columbia Gorge.