Concepts & Narratives

𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗟𝗼𝗴𝗼
I selected the initial design because the singular, flowing line captures the jittery, dynamic nature of a hummingbird, an effect that reflects its rapid, multidirectional flight patterns. This linework creates a slight blur, embodying the unique characteristics of the species in motion.
For the color palette, I opted for shades of green to maintain consistency and convey precision, which are qualities hummingbirds are known for. This choice also contrasts with the energetic outline, keeping the design simple and uncluttered while echoing green as a prominent colour found in many hummingbird species.
To represent the diversity within the species, I incorporated a cut-up, textured body design. This allowed me to layer various textures, adding dimension and highlighting colours like pink, red, and orange. These accents subtly reference the iridescent sparkle of the hummingbird’s feathers and wings, particularly evident when in motion.

𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗿𝗱 3𝗗 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗹
I designed my model to harmonize with my logo and embody the key traits of a hummingbird. Initially, I considered crafting the shape from wood or clay, intending to add dried flowers and glitter to capture the bird’s shimmer and its connection to nectar, its primary food source. However, I later decided that this approach did not fully align with my intended perspective on the hummingbird.
By using wire, I was able to convey the bird’s sense of rapid, continuous movement. The blurred, nearly invisible outline of a hummingbird in motion translates well through wire, enhancing the dynamic quality of the model. To depict the variety in hummingbird species, I filled the wire structure with layers of tissue paper, colored paper, and patterned fabrics. These elements showcase the vibrant range of colours seen in the bird’s feathers, which appear to shift hues as the hummingbird moves, a nod to its iridescent plumage.
For an added touch, I applied a fine glitter coating to the wire, ensuring the model catches light at different angles, creating a unique and shimmering effect with every view. This detail brings the piece to life, reflecting the hummingbird’s distinctive sparkle and energy.

𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗔𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
For my final image-making technique, I chose Adobe Illustrator. My familiarity with the program allowed me to effectively use vibrant colors, precise shapes, and the pen tool to trace or create abstract imagery. I believe my animation captures the essence of a hummingbird, as it is fast-paced and transitions rapidly between shots, creating a sense of urgency and intensity reflective of both the storyline and the bird’s behavior.
I aimed to convey the hummingbird's quick, slightly jolting movement, which worked well to illustrate its high-speed nature. Beyond movement, my animation also reflects the hummingbird's diet, habitat, fluctuating emotions, and vibrant coloration. For example, the colors on Shimmer’s chest emulate how its feathers catch the light and shimmer with motion.
I named my hummingbird character "Shimmer," inspired by the collective noun for hummingbirds, which added a personal connection to my initial research on the species.

Music:
Spontaneous by Clear Ocean from Adobe Stock Music

𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗭𝗶𝗻𝗲/𝗣𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿
After completing my zine/poster, I feel it effectively represents the hummingbird. My final booklet serves as a guide for attracting hummingbirds to one's home. It is designed to be both educational and visually engaging, making it accessible and appealing to a broad audience, including bird watchers, residents in hummingbird zones, and those passionate about endangered species.
To select the final images, I organized my top choices by numbering them and placing them in a separate folder. I then experimented in InDesign, dragging images in and out until I found the best visual combination. I faced some limitations as I lacked duplicates for certain flowers and insects, reducing my options.
In designing the layout, I avoided overwhelming background elements to ensure that the viewer’s attention would be drawn directly to the illustrations. The watercolor style captures the hummingbird's fluid and free-spirited nature. Although I initially considered adding textures from a previous project, this made the layout feel too crowded, leading me to keep the inner pages on a clean white background. Instead, I incorporated texture on the front and back covers to enhance the overall design.
In the end, I believe the zine/poster aligns well with my intended theme and colour scheme. It highlights the hummingbird's playful qualities, which are often overlooked, and brings out the unique personality of the species.