Making science beautiful and accessible.
Wapiti Studios is a one-woman science communication show run by me, Sarah Nason! I am a trained wildlife biologist-turned-science communicator from Alberta, Canada. At Wapiti Studios, I help take scientific information and data and translate them into engaging illustrations, diagrams, figures and infographics.
About Wapiti Studios.
I chose the name Wapiti Studios to represent my connection to the wildlife of Alberta, recognize the Indigenous lands I am grateful to work and live on (wapiti is the Shawnee and Cree word for elk), and express a sense of expansive creativity. I am based amiskwaciy-wâskahikan, now known as Edmonton, in Treaty 6 Territory.
As an ex-researcher, I believe that scientists’ study of the living world is connected to our love and celebration of nature. That is why I strive to create work that creates a sense of joy, wonder and celebration. Nature is for everyone and I believe that science communication should increase the accessibility of scientific information for all citizens.
Please note that I am always considering pro-bono or discounted work for non-profits, Indigenous groups and charities who may like to work with me. Please reach out using the contact information at the bottom of the page!
Values.
Make science exciting, beautiful and accessible.
Science can often seem intimidating or too complex. I believe that by communicating science visually, we can all enjoy it better and have greater equality of access.
Invigorate and celebrate our shared connection to nature.
The reason why I chose to study biology in the first place was a deep rooted love of nature and animals. I strive to have that always shine in my work, as I believe acknowledging and growing the emotional side of our connection with nature is key to protecting it.
Integrate social and environmental justice.
I believe that science communication has a strong role to play in bringing together the biological and social sciences. These two fields are often considered separate in practice - but in reality, they could not be more inter-linked.
Share knowledge and build community.
I don't believe in gatekeeping knowledge. Anyone who is interested in a career in science communication should have access to the knowledge and tools to do so - just contact me if you want to grab a coffee and chat!
About Sarah Nason.
I started my professional journey as an undergrad in Animal Biology at the University of Alberta. I spent several seasons doing biological field work, then completed my M.Sc. in Biology at the Université du Québec à Montréal in 2019. As someone who has slogged it in the field, in the lab and at the computer (curse you, R!), I can relate to the research experience and understand all the hard work that goes into producing solid scientific work.
My passion is to combine my creative side with science to help celebrate the incredible efforts of scientists and ensure their research can reach a broader audience. In my spare time, I spend plenty of time doting on my rescue dog Willow and my ever-growing collection of house plants, as is my millenial right.
You can learn more about me and my background on my LinkedIn! (And you can follow Willow’s Instagram here).
“Meet the Team”
MORAL SUPPORT OFFICER
Willow McPillow
(Ok, I only have one team member so far and it’s my dog. Thank you for making it this far down the page.)
Contact me.
sarah@wapitistudios.ca
(780) 667 - 3951