While exploring for oil in the waters of the South China Sea off the coast of Borneo, TotalFinaElf (now TOTAL) discovered a 15th century shipwreck. The extensive Brunei Shipwreck Project, sponsored by Elf and organised by CfBT, was a result of this extraordinary find. The site continues to be an ongoing archaeological study of the discovery and recovery of artifacts from the shipwreck.
The complexity of the project called on the talents and skills of many groups and individuals. The overall team included His Majesty's Government of Brunei; the Director of Museums; the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; the French Ministry of Culture; a production editor; a project manager; three writers; four international underwater photographers; a graphic consultant and illustrator.
The key target audience were school age children. The Council for British Teachers (CfBT) requested a conservative design conveying a sense of classic elegance.
The process from discovery to recovery was meticulously documented so material was abundant. Under the waves of the South China Sea, the photographers captured beautifully haunting images from their submersible.
To reflect the nautical ambiance, photos throughout the book were given an edge treatment hinting of waves. Icons were created to highlight different learning sections. To mimic the water and the shipwreck itself, a colour scheme of blues, browns and rust tones was used. Finally, to compliment the photography, fluid, slightly whimsical illustrations were created.
Client's comments: I would like to thank Katz-i International Web & Graphic Design for all the work that they put into the Elf Shipwreck Project. Without their expertise the final product would certainly be less than it is. They have ensured that visually the pack and it's contents has an impressive impact. John Perry (Managing Director, ELF Petroleum) has communicated how the pack has superceeded his original expectations and this is in no small measure due to the contributions from Katz-i. On my part it has been a great pleasure working with Katz-i. I have found the collaboration to be a fruitful and enriching one. The experience of working on a team that is co-ordinated and professional, on the production of a good piece of work, is a most satisfying one that is not always achieved.
Barnaby Priest, Project Manager, The Brunei Shipwreck Project, CfBT
Client: ELF Petroleum, Asia BV
Publicity: Book, 2 posters, CD and CD cover, CD insert and brochure, teachers educational pack, and video.
