ASSIGNMENT

The Paleontologist is an illustrated character study in an effort to tell a story in a single editorial illustration. With a goal of adding as much detail as possible to give that story life, but withholding enough, as not to overly complicate the narrative, The Paleontologist provides the viewer with a brief look at one graduate student's boredom.

APPROACH

Digital. The illustration looks into the life of a young graduate student who is desperately ready for field work, but who's advisor thinks research (and filing cabinets full of paperwork and index cards) are a better fit for her. The fossils, plant life and field guides (with their talk of adventure!) provide a further itch to get out into the field. Her letter of acceptance into the graduate program and the first printed copy of the Beast's foot print hangs on her wall (which she has been carrying with her since she found it in her first year of under-grad) both mark a history that exists before the illustration takes place, giving her roots and life. Also, giving the viewer just a small little clue as to why she's so disappointedly, bored.
Overall, each detail is considered and added in an effort to give the character a little more life and make her all the more real.

RESULTS

This illustration was well received, being full of the necessary information to tell the viewer The Paleontologist's story. We are sympathetic to her boredom and eager to see if she eventually breaks out into the field. Because clearly, she's ready.