Meet Cat Smith — From Zoology to SciArt, Bridging Worlds Through Illustration

Cassidy “Cat” Smith is a science illustrator born and raised in New England with a love for video games, printmaking, and storytelling through art. After earning her BS in Zoology from Oregon State University, along with a Studio Art minor, she went on to pursue a graduate certificate in Science Illustration at CSU Monterey Bay. Her zoology background fuels her interest in depicting anatomy, behavior and ecology with precision and visual flair. Whether she’s illustrating a seabird in flight, exploring medical illustration or developing concept art, Cat is dedicated to making science more accessible, inspiring curiosity, and showing the beauty of the natural world.

How did your studies connect you to the work you do now?

I started undergrad fully immersed in science, so much so that, after a year and a half, I realized I needed a creative outlet. Adding a Studio Art minor gave me balance and reignited my passion for making art. Eventually, I landed two positions at Oregon State’s Orange Media Network: illustrator and cartoonist. For the first time, I was getting paid to draw, and those experiences made it clear that art didn’t have to stay on the sidelines of my career.

Her illustration for an article titled: “Read the room: Where Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer ends, Linus Pauling begins” - The Daily Barometer

Was there a moment when you knew you wanted to combine art and science?

Rather than one big “aha” moment, it was a series of connected experiences. I first encountered scientific illustration in a short-term class, which felt like discovering a hidden door between my two worlds. Then came my work with Orange Media Network, which boosted my confidence as an artist. In my fourth year, I joined a year-long art-science fellowship, working with both an art mentor and a science mentor. I even got to design a mini research project inspired by my mentor’s lab. Looking back, those moments fit together like puzzle pieces gradually revealing the path I’m on now.

What inspires your work, professionally and personally?

I draw inspiration from all kinds of media including books, movies, TV and especially video games. They help spark ideas and give me new ways to think about storytelling. I also value time with friends, whether it’s bouncing ideas around or just enjoying their company. Those conversations often give me fresh perspectives.

What’s your dream science x art project?

I’d love to work directly in the field alongside researchers or conservation teams, contributing to the work hands-on and illustrating in real time. My science background makes me want to be in the middle of the action — observing, sketching and learning from the source.

What advice would you give other emerging creatives of science?

Don’t compare yourself to others — especially in science illustration, where everyone arrives with different skills and backgrounds. Instead of letting that intimidate you, ask questions, take notes and learn from others’ strengths. Your perspective is just as valuable, even if it’s different.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

I don’t see my career as a straight line. I’m open to different paths, from working in informal education at aquariums, zoos or museums, to contributing to conservation efforts with nonprofits. I’d like to keep creating science illustrations and also explore concept art — characters, environments and beyond.

What’s your favorite thing to draw?

I’m drawn to charismatic megafauna, seabirds, and lately, medical illustration. I think my love for drawing people naturally led me to that. Outside of science, I dive into concept art, focusing mainly on characters but also experimenting with environments.

Cat's illustrative study on penguin movement.

What are you working on at ECOS?

During my internship, I’m exploring projects centered on conservation, anatomy and science communication. One involves creating detailed illustrations to accompany new marine mammal research, adaptable for both public outreach and institutional use. I’m also developing anatomical and medical illustrations for a women’s health research lab, aiming for visuals that work in both digital and print formats. My goal is to produce artwork that connects scientific knowledge with engaging, accessible storytelling.

Follow Cat’s projects through the ECOS social media platforms and her own Instagram.

Cat's infographic explaining how a dolphin's melon works for echolocation.