Graphical (or pictorial) presentations of data have become an almost essential part of journalistic practice. Data visualization helps us see patterns in data and is an important tool for finding stories. Over the past decade, major outlets including The New York Times, Washington Post, and Reuters have been publishing data visualizations that push the idea of storytelling, creating new data-driven ways to inform and entertain. Alongside these graphics are newsrooms based entirely on data visualization, including the Kontinentalist and The Pudding.
In this day-long workshop co-sponsored by the Brown Institute and Barnard Vagelos Computational Science Center, members of The Pudding will immerse participants in their tried-and-true design process, segmented into four stages: story, data, design, and development.
In the week leading up to the workshop, accepted participants will be asked to embark on a creative journey to collect data about the NYC subway system. This data might be methodical and sourced from the MTA turnstile API, capturing the flow of commuters through the city. Or it could be more personal and observational—hand-documented notes from your daily treks, sketches of the subway’s unique quirks, maps of broken lights, or a visual catalog of tile murals across stations. Inspired by the work of Denis Wood, who mapped his neighborhood in surprising ways, and Giorgia Lupi, known for blending data and personal stories, we encourage you to be creative! Use whatever tools come natural to you, whether it’s pen and paper, a spreadsheet, or a snippet of code. Every one of us has a unique story shaped by these subterranean journeys, and we can’t wait to see what data you find interesting and valuable. Do not spend more than an hour or two on this effort.
The session will begin with Story, a throughline that should resonate with all participants of the program. As we’ve all experienced, the strongest visualizations are those with equally strong narratives. Diving deeper, students will be introduced to the realm of Data. Using curated datasets around key topics, students will seek to uncover the nuances of integrating specific, meaningful data with their narratives. The emphasis then shifts to the visual canvas, focusing on the core elements of Design. The goal is to ensure that every story is captivating both visually and narratively. And culminating the day is a glimpse into Development. While the intricacies of programming might remain in the backdrop, attendees will understand and appreciate the development scaffolding that turns their narratives and designs into dynamic interactive features.
APPLY TO ATTEND
This workshop will only be able to accommodate 24 students. Applications are due by midnight on Friday, October 17. Notices will be sent out on Monday, October 20.