826NYC is a writing and tutoring center located in Brooklyn, hidden behind a superhero supply store. In 2017, the students at 826NYC studied the ecosystem of New York City, learning about the plants, animals, and microbes that coexist in our concrete jungle. For each book, the students were assigned a different creature, which they researched, illustrated, and wrote a short story or poem about.
The covers of the books were designed the illustrate the complex ecosystems in New York City, and included each student's plant / animal / microbe. The students could then find their creature hidden in the design of the cover.
The black and white design gave the kids the opportunity to color in their own book...
...and I created a custom font to accompany the books and coordinate with the thin line work on the cover.
(Diatoms are a designer's dream microbe.
Check 'em out.)
The books feature the students' brilliant research and artwork, and are available for purchase at the 826 store in Brooklyn, and online here.
"Our mission is to encourage the exploration of endless possibility through the power of writing. To empower students with the skills to write their own paths forward, undefined by circumstance. To support new and exciting approaches to writing and inspire student engagement. And to foster generations of creative writers and thinkers, who together will define a better future."
-826NYC
Here's a related project or three...
CLEAR THE AIR
MINDFUL MOVES
TO-GO WARE