Communicating complex climate data and concepts, such as overshoot and uncertainty, remains a challenge when engaging non-expert audiences. Effective visual communication approaches can bring complex data to life, not just presenting it, but also driving the story. This makes information more accessible and intuitive for diverse audiences, enabling deeper understanding and more meaningful interaction.
In this workshop, we will examine how comics and other visual communication formats can complement traditional data visualisation approaches by embedding quantitative information within storytelling, and using visual metaphors and simplified graphical representations.
First, we will introduce data-driven storytelling formats like comics, infographics or interactive web stories, and explore with participants how underlying data (e.g. temperature overshoot, emission scenarios) are transformed into narrative elements. We will discuss with the audience best practices and processes for developing such visual formats, and for preserving the balance between engagement and scientific robustness.
Next, the workshop will focus on a hands-on group activity in which participants create a short comic (1-3 panels) based on provided climate data or concepts. This exercise will allow participants to experiment with translating data into visual narratives that retain meaning while increasing accessibility.
By the end of the session, participants will have gained practical experience in narrative data visualisation and a transferable method for communicating complex climate data.