Skin

Exhibit

Project Overview

Skin is a large-scale exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences that explores the biology, evolution, and function of skin across species. The exhibit combines large-scale environmental graphics, tactile models, interpretive illustrations, and interactive stations to guide visitors through topics ranging from camouflage and regeneration to healing, protection, and communication. I was responsible for shaping the exhibit's visual storytelling through layered graphics, tactile interfaces, and educational experiences, blending science and design to create a cohesive visitor journey.

My Goal

With this project, I wanted to translate complex scientific content into visual experiences that were both intuitive and delightful. My focus was on making dense biological information feel approachable, especially for younger audiences and those unfamiliar with the topic. I aimed to create entry points through color, illustration, and interaction—designing experiences that could be read, touched, and remembered.

The process began with deep collaboration across teams, including biologists, writers, exhibit fabricators, and accessibility consultants. I worked closely with the content team to identify key scientific takeaways and transform them into layered visual systems, from micro-level skin diagrams to large-scale wall graphics. Illustration played a major role in helping visitors connect to the invisible processes happening under the skin. I also designed tactile graphics and interactive features to support kinesthetic learning, ensuring visitors could engage through touch and exploration. Throughout, I kept accessibility, flow, and clarity at the center of the design process, making sure every element contributed to a more inclusive and impactful experience.

Skin Exhibit

Environmental Graphic Design
Illustration and Diagrams
Information Design
Interactive and Tactile Integration
Multidisciplinary Collaboration

An infographic table uses physical elements to display some of the social disparities amongst people with different skin colors, including information related to arrests, medicinal drug prescriptions, and even housing opportunities.

A range of infographics representations, including an illustrated panel showcasing the layers that make up a rhinoceros horn, a full size infographic of human microbiomes, and a physical interactive that delivers a hands-on lesson in how skin responds to stimuli like temperature, texture, vibration, and pressure. I developed a diagrammatic cross-section illustration style for skin that was that basis for many graphics and animations throughout the exhibit.

Outcome

The exhibit became one of the museum’s most tactile and visually engaging experiences. Visitors spent extended time interacting with displays, and feedback from both educators and guests praised the clarity and beauty of the visual system. The project set a new internal standard for combining detailed science communication with sensory, inclusive design. Many of the visual and interaction strategies were later adopted for future gallery projects.

What I learned

Designing Skin reinforced the value of working across disciplines and formats. It deepened my understanding of how scientific storytelling can be made both rigorous and approachable, especially when paired with tactile and visual design. It also taught me how to structure content in layers, offering multiple ways in for visitors with different learning preferences, needs, and levels of prior knowledge.