For National Science Week the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research tried something new - a sell-out comedy debate pitching their funniest (and bravest) scientists against professional comedians to argue if there is art in science. The debate aimed to engage the public with science in a fun way, particularly young men and women. Promotional materials for the event had to generate excitement and encourage ticket sales.

I sketched out stereotypes of art and science to see which had the clearest and most appealing potential for a general public audience looking to be entertained (and perhaps educated on the sly). My initial concept playing with the paradox of the Vitruvian man proved too visually busy, so I amped up the brightness and decided upon a simple but direct logotype with hand drawn flourishes.

Promotional posters and postcards were distributed throughout inner city areas in cafes and on billboards. Regular posts on social media gradually built awareness and anticipation.

Graphics during the event centred on the large format screen set behind the stage, which announced each speaker and played an animation to reinforce the argument being put forward.

The debate was sold out, with over 50% of ticket buyers falling within the target audience. Audience members had a great time and rated the event highly in an exit survey.