Nature Illustration for Interpretive Exhibits & Media
A Unique Perspective, an Efficient Process
Nature Illustration for Interpretive Exhibits & Media
– specializing in images of Nature, Science & the National Parks
Illustrating nature and science has been my specialty for many years. As a trained engineer I offer a unique perspective when creating artwork, combining careful study and analysis with a painterly style and colorful palette – a balance between aesthetics and analytics. The timeless human interaction with the natural landscape has always intrigued and inspired me.
Experienced with large-scale project management and art direction, I am highly responsive and collaborate well with team members, resulting in award-winning projects delivered on time!
Sunset on Konza Prairie, book illustration from The Autumn Calf
© Joyce Mihran Turley • Dixon Cove Design
Interpreting Nature
Illustration as Communication
The palette is infinite, the perspective is humbling!
No number of images can replace the experience of visiting a landscape in person, but an experienced illustrator can guide the viewer to see subtle aspects that are easily overlooked. Brush strokes and thoughtful color selection bring a scene to life, emphasizing your message in a way that a photograph cannot.
Illustration can provide more information than photography:
- a glimpse underground
- a freeze-frame of motion
- a bird’s eye view
- revealing layers of information in a single image
Diagraming Ecosystems
InfoGraphics for Communicating and Educating
I was drawn into the fascinating world of feedback systems and process control while studying Systems Engineering and earning my degree in Mathematics at Case Western Reserve University. At the same time, I studied painting at the Cleveland Institute of Art and later, while working as an engineer, continued with art courses at Colorado State University.
Ecosystems are the ultimate example of feedback control systems!
As an illustrator, the most rewarding projects allow me to combine science and art – both sides of my brain are fully focused as I create illustrated diagrams of processes and elements within the natural sciences. A dance between aesthetics and analysis, I provide scientifically accurate images with a painterly style and colorful palette.
A visit and observation in the field allows me to take my own reference photos, whenever practical. I create teams of knowledgable resources for reference and review, from National Park Rangers to researchers funded by the National Science Foundation.
The Chemistry of Cave Formations, Oregon Caves NM – infographic
