Russia's Grizzly Coast, Minnesota Zoo - Apple Valley, MN

Russia's Grizzly Coast is the only zoo exhibit in North America that is based on the area known as Russia's Far East. Large areas of this region are pristine wilderness and others are at risk of permanent damage from resource extraction. Rich in plant and animal diversity, the region is also home to many Russian, Asian, and indigenous communities.

Exhibits are focused on exhibited animals and the conservation issues surrounding them and the region. Exhibit structures and graphics fit harmoniously into the landscape and provide an engaging point of information.

Russia's Grizzly Coast is the American Zoo and Aquarium Association's 2009 Top Honors award recipient in exhibit design.

Responsibilities included: research, exhibit design, graphic design, and documentation. Project completed while employed with The Portico Group.

This sample from the exhibit's Graphic Design Manual provides art direction for one panel within the exhibit. The document provided a production team information on layout, materials, and design intent so that graphics could be produced accurately.

Exhibit entry graphics and general wayfinding provides orientation to visitors and establishes the visual language and mood for graphics within the exhibit.

Exhibit graphics define regions as a visitor moves through the space. Contextual information helps ground what is displayed and discussed in a physical place.

Each region contains a large column with photography highlighting the magnificent scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and peoples of the region.

This donation opportunity allowed visitors to give to any of three organizations working on conservation causes. Video presentations are activated when a donation is received.

This work including text, images and photos by Wing Fong is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at www.designbywingfong.com.