Another assessment task from our TAFE course. The brief was to construct a infographic poster from a number of set topics. The poster was also to be based on an aspect ratio of 80 x 30cm. With my engineering background I chose Gustav Eiffel. Obviously with a name like his most people can assume what he is most famous for. However after conducting some research to help with the poster content I was surprised with the number of significant achievements. These included:
- Early adopter eg compressed air caisssons & hollow-cast piers.
- Pioneer of insistence that all engineering decisions based on thorough calculation of forces involved. He combined this analytical approach with a high standard of accuracy in drawing & manufacture.
- Growth in rail network immense effect on people’s lives, but required many bridges to be built.
- Both the Eiffel Tower & the Statue of Liberty are immense symbolic importance – internationally recognized landmarks. Established aesthetic potential of structures whose appearance is largely dictated by practical considerations.
- Contribution to science of aerodynamics probably equal to his work as an engineer!
I had several attempts at designing the infographic. These first was really just a quick sketch to see how the elements could fit.
Next I carefully pieced together key elements based on the research. I was happy with the overall composition, but unfortunately I got sucked into too much detail. I also started to incorporate some subtle visual elements such as the stress/strain diagrams as part of the Statue of Liberty gown and the tattoo of the steelwork plan. An infographic’s core function is to convey information to the audience and I think these elements were too obscure.
The final version I altered the aspect to create a vertical panorama and use the idea of linking trusses as a time line. I then added various details of key dates of achievements.
Then I just got silly… I made an Eiffel Tower out of Gustave Eiffels! I hope you enjoy 🙂