Who, What, Where, Why?

Creating interpretive signs is one of my favorite parts of my job. It’s safe to say over the years I’ve helped create hundreds of interpretive signs.  I get to visit great natural areas, hike the site with the people who know it and love it the best. Learn the story of the site and then figure out how to best tell the story with images and as few words as possible.

Every natural area has some a story to tell, the story could be about the something not easily seen, the geology, hydrology, some plant, animal, insect, or human story. Whatever the story is, it’s my job to help tell it.

Interpretive signs should not distract from the landscape. But the signs should be compelling enough to draw visitors over to look and learn if they’re interested. Being an illustrator, I try to tell the stories with images as much as possible. Over the years I’ve learned so much from excellent teachers, naturalists, writers and editors. I bring years of experience to each new job.

This sign is located at the end of a boardwalk at Moraine Hills, in northern Illinois. I love the clarity and personality of all the critters.