Illustrating Life in Ancient Ohio

Paleo-artist Kyle Hartshorn presented his perspectives on developing the ODNR Division of Geological Survey's new Life in Ancient Ohio poster series. Kyle discussed his role in crafting the artwork for the posters, including his research and artistic processes, visually communicating sometimes difficult scientific concepts, and the collaborative effort required to produce scientifically accurate depictions of Ohio’s natural history. Kyle Hartshorn has an unusual background in technology, science, and art. Although his formal career is focused on engineering and computer graphics, Kyle is also a life-long naturalist and semiprofessional geologist and digital artist. With years of experience with the strata and fossils of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, he has co-authored multiple guidebooks and papers describing the paleontology and stratigraphy of the Ordovician-Silurian rocks that surround his native Cincinnati. This presentation was given to ODNR employees on December 7, 2023.

[mandy]

As soon as the first picture showed up, I knew you were the artist from Cowen. I am so glad that I can finally buy the poster! I'm really happy. I got to see your process.