Text Diagram
Tools used: Adobe Illustrator
Year: 2025
Description: For this project, I created a text diagram based on information gathered from a podcast.
Prep: I began by listening to a podcast that explored the origins of three ubiquitous icons — the peace symbol, the smiley face, and the power icon. These are universal symbols that are universal but few know the meaning and design history behind. While listening, I downloaded the transcript into Google Docs to highlight key points I wanted to include in my diagram. From there, I organized the highlighted information into clear categories such as design concept, background, and symbolism.
Draft: I sketched an initial layout on Procreate to map out how I wanted the layout of the diagram to look. Then, in Adobe Illustrator, I experimented with different colors, fonts, and type settings. I selected a typeface with multiple typographic variables, which allowed me to play with size, weight, and style to create text hierarchy. I also used lines and placement to guide the flow of information and help viewers follow the narrative of the diagram.
Final: After reflecting and receiving feedback on my draft, I made refinements for my final version. I placed “Symbols” and “Origins” on the same level to create better visual balance. I changed the color of the smaller text to improve readability and moved the three icon names closer to the center to draw the viewer’s eye to the main focal point first. Finally, I added a clear title with the podcast name and linking words on top of the connecting lines.
