2024 Bug Calendar

2024 Bug Calendar

A monthly calendar with tear-off pages that double as postcards. It uses geometric forms, scientific names, and insect illustrations in a modern style.

A monthly calendar with tear-off pages that double as postcards. It uses geometric forms, scientific names, and insect illustrations in a modern style.

Project Overview

Awarded the RGD Award for 1st Year Student, this award recognizes excellent communication design work by students who have completed their first year in a design program.

This calendar design combines art and science in a visually engaging and educational format. It is inspired by cyanotype printing; its blue monochromatic scheme gives it a timeless feel. Designed for convenience, the 8.5 x 5.5-inch size and perforated paper make it easy to use. The unique tear-down-the-middle layout allows pages to be repurposed as art prints or postcards. Ideal for offices, classrooms and homes, this functional monthly planner inspires people to learn about and appreciate nature.

Each month of this 2024 calendar features a different digitally hand-drawn bug, ranging from single, large-winged insects to compositions with multiple bugs.

Inspired by cyanotypes, the project uses a blue monochromatic colour palette which draws from a process that evolved from an early scientific tool into the original “blueprint” method. This connection between printing techniques, science, and observation ties into the project’s focus on nature and education.

Each monthly card is double-sided, featuring the calendar design on one side and a postcard template on the reverse. A perforated cut through the centre allows the calendar to be torn at the end of the month, so the postcard can be used and mailed.

The calendar is designed as individual monthly pages that can be displayed one at a time. Each page is intended to be swapped out monthly and displayed using a simple hanging system, such as a magnetic frame, so the current month can be easily displayed without ruining the paper.

Geometric elements such as ovals and scientific names are integrated to contrast the organic forms of insects. A modern typeface is used to complement the shapes and maintain a clean, contemporary visual tone.

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