Goldfish Varieties
Information Design • Illustration • Data Visualization • Layout
A playful yet informative infographic exploring the diversity of selectively bred goldfish
Tools
Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator
Overview
An illustrated infographic created as a final project for an Information Graphics course at Sheridan College. The project involved researching a chosen topic and translating complex information into a clear, engaging visual format. I chose to explore the wide variety of goldfish breeds, combining detailed illustration with structured information design.
The Problem
Goldfish varieties are often unfamiliar to the average viewer, with subtle visual differences and complex breeding histories that can be difficult to communicate clearly. Existing reference charts are also limited in accessibility - with many comprehensive resources are primarily available in Chinese or Japanese, making it difficult for English-speaking audiences to find a clear, all-encompassing guide. The challenge was to present a large amount of information in a way that is both accessible and visually engaging.
Audience
Curious learners, hobbyists, and younger audiences (such as students in classroom settings!) who would benefit from a visually driven and approachable introduction to the topic.
Creative Direction
The design balances educational clarity with a playful aesthetic. A bright, inviting colour palette and stylized illustrations make the content approachable, while a structured layout ensures the information remains easy to navigate.
Illustration System
A set of 35 goldfish varieties were illustrated in a consistent, stylized manner to allow for easy comparison while maintaining visual charm.
Visual Navigation
Simple icons and markers help guide the viewer and reduce text heavy content.
Information Hierarchy
Each fish is paired with key details, including name, breed characteristics/lineage, and country of origin. Information is organized in a repeatable format to support readability.
Process
The project began with research into goldfish breeds and their characteristics, followed by iterative sketching and refinement of illustration styles. The final layout was designed to accommodate a large number of elements while maintaining clarity and balance.
Solution
The final infographic presents a large volume of information in a way that feels approachable and engaging. By combining consistent illustration with clear structure, the design supports both quick browsing and deeper exploration.
Reflection
This project allowed me to combine illustration with information design, focusing on how visual systems can make complex topics more accessible. It also challenged me to maintain consistency across a large set of illustrated elements.