An image of Dr. Sue Pillans smiling in front of one of her graphic recording artworks. She wears a white t-shirt and an orange cardigan with a lanyard.

Dr. Sue Pillans, graphic recorder, author, and founder of Picture Your Ideas.

The Power of Visual Storytelling: Marine Science to Graphic Recording with Dr. Sue Pillans — Episode 34

Hosted by Dr. Siwan Lovett & produced by Chris Walsh

In today’s episode, Siwan sits down with Dr. Sue Pillans, a marine scientist, artist and children’s author who specialises in creative and visual communications to help people “picture their ideas”. As a graphic recorder, Sue draws discussions and presentations in real-time to visually capture and convey information, ideas and concepts. Sue has worked with over 65 organisations across Australia and the Southeast Asian region using visual storytelling to help make the complex simple and the simple compelling. Sue also combines her love of marine science and art to bring creativity into classrooms as her alter ego, “Dr. Suzie Starfish”. As a children’s author and illustrator, her picture books engage and educate children about the wonders of the ocean.

Dr. Pillans’ unique ability to translate spoken words into vibrant visual stories brings the passion and commitment of river conservationists to life. As she shares her transformative path from marine scientist to visual storyteller, we explore the profound impact of visual communication, particularly when communicating with diverse audiences, including First Nations communities. From capturing complex scientific concepts to inspiring the next generation about ocean conservation, Sue’s journey underscores the importance of creativity in promoting environmental awareness and cultural sensitivity. We close our conversation by discussing imaginative and fun ways to engage children in environmental education and action by using the power of storytelling to inspire change.

Learn more about Dr. Pillans’ work at her website: drsuepillans.com.

Click here to view the links and resources for this episode, including more information about Dr. Pillans, her graphic recording work, and her books as ‘Dr. Suzie Starfish’.

 

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    In today’s episode, Siwan sits down with Dr. Sue Pillans, a marine scientist, artist and children’s author who specialises in creative and visual communications to help people “picture their ideas”. As a graphic recorder, Sue draws discussions and presentations in real-time to visually capture and convey information, ideas and concepts. Sue has worked with over 65 organisations across Australia and the Southeast Asian region using visual storytelling to help make the complex simple and the simple compelling. Sue also combines her love of marine science and art to bring creativity into classrooms as her alter ego, “Dr. Suzie Starfish”. As a children’s author and illustrator, her picture books engage and educate children about the wonders of the ocean.

    Dr. Pillans’ unique ability to translate spoken words into vibrant visual stories brings the passion and commitment of river conservationists to life. As she shares her transformative path from marine scientist to visual storyteller, we explore the profound impact of visual communication, particularly when communicating with diverse audiences, including First Nations communities. From capturing complex scientific concepts to inspiring the next generation about ocean conservation, Sue’s journey underscores the importance of creativity in promoting environmental awareness and cultural sensitivity. We close our conversation by discussing imaginative and fun ways to engage children in environmental education and action by using the power of storytelling to inspire change.

    Learn more about Dr. Pillans’ work at her website: drsuepillans.com.

    Click here to view the links and resources for this episode, including more information about Dr. Pillans, her graphic recording work, and her books as ‘Dr. Suzie Starfish’.

    Dr. Sue Pillans smiles in front of her graphic recording artwork from the 11th Annual Stream Management Conference wearing a red long-sleeved top and a blue blazer.
    Dr. Pillans' graphic recording artwork from the 11th Annual Stream , 2024.
    Dr. Sue Pillans stands in front of a large graphic recording artwork on a whiteboard.
    Dr. Pillans at the ACEL National Conference 2023 at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre 2023. Photo: Jon W / Event Photos Australia
    Dr. Sue Pillans reading one of her books for primary students in a primary school classroom wearing a fun marine-themed costume.
    Dr. Suzie Starfish reading one of her picture books for primary students in a marine-themed costume!
    Dr. Suzie Starfish looking excited with a display of her ocean picture books,decorated with shells and soft toys.
    Dr. Suzie Starfish and her ocean picture books.