Ape Ecology & Behaviour Group

website + brand design + illustration

Ape Behaviour & Ecology Group at the University of Zurich

The Ape Ecology & Behaviour Group studies wild great apes to learn more about the evolutionary origins of their behaviour, as well as our own. They are especially curious about how and why apes use tools, expanding to ask why humans are such a uniquely technological species.

When Dr. Kathelijne Koops first approached us about the project, she was excited to build a digital space that celebrated her new lab group. We were equally excited to dig deeper into her work, her vision, and how we could help share her story visually. Dive in to see the brand and website in action👇

“Working with Impact Media Lab was fabulous! Lots of fun! It was much more personal than I expected. Working on the website really forced me to define my research program and explain why it matters for the general public.”

— Dr. Kathelijne Koops

Home page

Research

THE BRAND

Bold, bright, conservation-minded

The Ape Behaviour & Ecology Group is bold, bright, and charismatic, inspired by the wildness, beauty, and intelligence of the great apes they study. One of the largest inspirations for the brand were West African textiles, whose bold colors and energy perfectly capture the spirit (and field locations) of the group. We designed a palette of warm reds and oranges (with help from the client!), which creates a strong sense of enthusiasm and joy. These colors also offer a beautiful contrast to the vibrant greens featured in most of Dr. Koops’ photographs.

Broadly, we wanted the APE Group’s audience to become captivated - as we were - by the species, landscapes, and behaviors that form the core of this group. Much of the gorgeous imagery used on this site was provided by Dr. Koops herself!