Muthia Bianda

Since I attended the Tableau conference in November 2023 and looked at many interesting projects from many Tableau gurus that I met in the event, I’m inspired to do the same thing. Their projects and the way they visualize their data make me think, “Why didn’t I think of that?”. Turns out, data visualization is an art form, and it’s got me hooked!

Ever seen a data visualization that not only delivers info in a flash but is also downright stunning? It’s like art for the analytical soul. And get this—I spotted people on Reddit asking if they could buy these visualizations as posters! Move over classic art; we want data posters on our walls!

For example, look at this stunning data visualization about Star Wars! I prefer this any day than a regular Darth Vader poster.

So, here’s the scoop. I’ve decided to dive into the world of epic data visualizations. Not just for the potential to make a bit of extra cash (although that’s a nice perk), but also because I want my walls to be adorned with cool, meaningful stuff. I have many some interests and experiences in my life —music, movies, travel—I’m thinking, “Why not turn these experiences into data magic?”

I’ve accustomed to make business dashboards and reports. I read many books around data visualization for that purpose, I know the basics rule for a good visualization… but there is creative limitation when you only work for business. Of course the company doesn’t need you to spend hours on visualizations, they want it simple, easy to understand, and quickly delivered – which is the correct approach.

So that’s why I lack of creativity. I don’t know how to use Adobe Illustrator, I can’t draw, I don’t know which analogy to choose to deliver a message through data. There’s so many things that I need to learn.

Learning

One thing for sure that I know about me is that when I want to learn a new skill, I’m all out for it. I spend several bucks to learn online and purchased books about… design. I want to know the basic of design theory, how to choose colour, how to decide where to place things on a blank paper, how to do… everything!

Besides paid learning sources, I also find inspirations from Tableau community and Pinterest.

This is why I want to write this post, I want to share my journey of learning data visualization and design – which when combined together, they’re called “Infographics”.

Upcoming projects!

I have a few upcoming projects in line, and I’m excited to document the process from start to finish. The first ones are guaranteed will be sucks, but hopefully after a few practices I can see some progress.