Planet Africa - Art Director
Planet Africa – Archaeological Time Travel.
Planet Africa: Archaeological Time Travel is a groundbreaking international exhibition that redefines our understanding of human history and cultural heritage. Developed by the German Archaeological Institute (DAI) in collaboration with numerous global partners, the exhibition has traveled across key cultural hubs in Germany (including Bonn) and Africa (such as Nairobi, Kenya). The project has seen immense success, attracting thousands of visitors and fostering deep engagement through its innovative "archaeology communication" style. The exhibition's prestige is further cemented by the involvement of world-renowned universities, cultural heritage data spaces, and high-profile endorsements from international media outlets like DW (Deutsche Welle), making it a landmark event for both the scientific community and the general public.
Mosab Zakaria and 249 Writers Illustration
As the Art Director for the visual centerpiece of this project, my role was to translate complex archaeological narratives into a vibrant, accessible, and life-filled masterpiece. Working with 249 Writers an Mosab, I led the creative direction to ensure the artwork functioned as both an educational tool and a profound cultural statement.
The visual language of the piece is defined by a balance between sharp and fluid shapes, reflecting the diversity of African landscapes and cultural expressions. Each region is interpreted through variations in rhythm, structure, and form, creating a dynamic composition that remains readable while rich in detail. The illustration style was intentionally designed to feel accessible, expressive, and full of life, ensuring that the information can be quickly understood while still rewarding deeper exploration.
The composition is meticulously organized based on the geographical sequence of the African continent. Every element—from architectural landmarks and indigenous flora to traditional folk sports—is positioned to mirror its real-world location from North to South and East to West, creating a visual map of the continent’s diversity.
Through this approach, the illustration becomes more than a visual support for the exhibition—it functions as a standalone interpretive map of African cultural and archaeological diversity. It transforms research-based content into a visual storytelling system that aligns with the broader mission of Planet Africa: to communicate the depth, complexity, and continuity of human history rooted in the African continent.
https://www.dainst.blog/entangled-africa/en/planet_africa_pilot_en/
https://www.dw.com/en/planet-africa-travels-through-the-archaeology-of-humankind/a-71015427
date published
Feb 17, 2022
