Derived from the extensive databases of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, “The Arms Race” is a digital design project. It translates data into an accessible visual narrative, focusing on the top 20 global arms exporters between 2010 and 2014.
Aptly titled ‘arms race’ – a term traditionally evoking competition in military technology – the design interprets this concept literally and inventively. Arms, depicted in a race towards a finish line, bear the flags of respective nations on their cuffs, symbolising each country’s stature in weapon exports. Their placements reflect the ranking of these countries based on arms export data.
Crafted primarily as an infographic, the design breaks the monotony of documents and articles, making the intricate subject of weapon and arms exports approachable to a broader audience. While the foundation of the design resonates well with its intended message, there’s work ahead in finalising text details.
My ultimate vision? To print and potentially sell copies, raising awareness on this pressing issue, with plans to update it annually to reflect changing global dynamics.