Data Sketches

Data visualization is an essential means of making visible the invisible patterns that surround us, and of seeing beyond the numbers. In Data Sketches, Nadieh Bremer and Shirley Wu document the deeply collaborative, deeply creative process behind 24 unique data visualization projects. Completed over the course of 12 months and spanning 12 different topics - from the Olympics to Presidents & Royals and from Movies to Myths & Legends - each pair of "wondrously eccentric" visualizations explores different technologies and forms, blurring the boundary between visualization as an exploratory tool and an art form in its own right. The book provides an intimate, behind-the-scenes account of all 24 projects - from data gathering, to sketching, to coding processes - and shares the authors' personal notes and drafts every step of the way. The book features: Detailed information on data gathering, sketching, and implementing processes, with screenshots of works-in-progress and reproductions from the authors' notebooks Never-before-published technical write-ups, with beginner-friendly explanations of core data visualization concepts Practical lessons based on the data and design challenges behind each project: the mistakes that were made and how they were overcome Full-color pages, showcasing all 24 final data visualizations An interview between the authors and series editor Tamara Munzner This book is perfect for anyone interested or working in data visualization and information design, especially those who want to take their work to the next level and are inspired by unique and compelling data-driven storytelling. Nadieh Bremer is an astronomer turned data scientist turned freelancing data visualization designer. Shirley Wu studied business and finance, graduated as a software engineer, and is now an independent data visualization designer. Connected by a mutual love for visualizing data, they bring a unique approach to visualization and refuse to be tied down by convention and available tools. The results are beautiful, innovative, and inspiring. They are both award-winning and internationally recognized data visualization designers. Their past clients include Google, UNESCO, SFMOMA, and the New York Times.