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Images for science

From the university magazine Zett

Photographs: Regula Bearth

Published on 11.01.2024

Author Lea Ingber

  • Design
  • Campus

After studying environmental sciences, Katja Knöllinger knew that scientific knowledge alone is not enough for her. She also wants to convey it to a broader public. The Bachelor of Arts in Knowledge Visualization is giving her manifold insights into medicine, the natural sciences and archaeology.

Lea Ingber: What projects are you currently working on?

Katja Knöllinger: We recently concluded a cooperative venture with the University of Zurich’s Animal Hospital. We visualized how to properly cut open a bovine heart for their veterinary students. Going into the lab was impressive. We were even allowed to touch the heart. This was very helpful to gain a spatial understanding of the heart and then visualize it.

How do you develop your own style?

We’re able to experiment with different approaches. I always start with pencil sketches. That’s the best way for me to capture ideas, even if the result ultimately arises completely differently. At the moment, I like working with 2D animations in After Effects. For example, I did that in another module where we were designing explainer videos. We were supposed to explain interesting features of an animal to a wide audience. I chose the bee-eater, a colourful and graceful bird. When it catches bees, it mercilessly beats them on hard surfaces to destroy their sting. This contrast fascinates me.

I can build a bridge between science and the general public.

Katja Knöllinger
You first studied environmental sciences. What attracted you to an arts university afterwards?

The Knowledge Visualization programme perfectly combines my two main interests. Already at high school, I was torn between biology and art. My background greatly helps my design work. On the one hand, I understand the content and on the other I can put myself in a scientist’s shoes. I can build a bridge between science and the general public.

What do you benefit from most on your programme?

I particularly enjoy exchanging ideas and experiences with my peers. All bachelor’s students share a studio, and we learn from each other. I also really appreciate that our lecturers make their experience and network available to us, for example, in order to find an internship.

What change have you enjoyed most so far?

The change of menu at Kafi Z, when they serve chestnut cake in autumn.

  • Photograph: Regula Bearth Photograph: Regula Bearth
  • Photograph: Regula Bearth Photograph: Regula Bearth

Programme

Information about the programme: BA Design, Knowledge Visualization


Lea Ingber
Lea Ingber co-leads the Content and PR team at ZHdK University Communications.

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