Julie’s Role: Content Developer / Writer / Graphic Designer / Production Coordinator

The Wausau Bird Club hired me to design and produce an informational sign to accompany and provide context for the chimney swift tower. In consultation with the members of the club, I gained background information, identified the learning goals, and outlined the major themes the sign should convey. After researching the content, I wrote short text descriptions for each theme and licensed images on behalf of WBC. Monk Botanical Gardens already had a number of informational and wayfinding signs on its grounds. I used existing signage as a graphic guide to design a panel that would be complementary, which was approved by both the WBC board and leadership at Monk Botanical Gardens. I also facilitated the printing process, communicating with the desired printing company regarding materials and pricing and providing print-ready files.

When WBC partnered with Wausau & Marathon County Parks, Recreation & Forestry, they reached out again. I was thrilled to design another informational sign for them. The graphic design was based on pre-existing signage placed throughout the park. After compiling research, I wrote language that included how native plants fulfill birds’ basic needs. I worked with the bird club to source high-resolution imagery from area bird photographers and coordinated the printing of the sign.

I worked with WBC and Monk Botanical Gardens a second time. While the first sign I designed was based on Monk’s former style guidelines, the institution had recently updated its branding and color palette. I created a new design and worked with the bird club to produce an informative sign that included resources for visitors to learn more and a call to action.